Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 364: This Time, It’s Really the Doghouse p2

“I didn’t expect the path to immortality to appear in the borderlands for no reason, and it’s less than a month since the last time.”

At this moment, a wisp of Yao Meng’s consciousness had unknowingly appeared in the Heavenly Court.

When she was fighting with Gong Lianyue earlier, she had vaguely sensed a path to immortality appearing silently in the sky.

However, this time, the path to immortality exuded a ‘friendly’ invitation.

Ye Lingxuan was dressed in a layered and elegant dress. She casually looked around and looked at the green figure not far away.

Among the people present, Ye Lingxuan was most wary of the Jade Empress.

The reason was that this fairy in the eyes of the world had openly cuckolded her more than once.

This time, she wanted to take this opportunity to settle old and new scores, but she didn’t expect the path to immortality to suddenly appear in the borderlands.

“I wonder where Brother Mu has gone… He was clearly still in the abyss, but I can’t sense his aura now.”

Ye Lingxuan thought to herself.

“Your Brother Mu might have been scared away by your quarrel. I told you long ago, if you let me take him back to the Demon Realm, he wouldn’t have any more trouble,” the Demon Empress said in a charming and gentle voice.

Ye Lingxuan glanced coldly, “It’s not appropriate to use the mind-reading technique on a junior, is it?”

“Sorry, I accidentally read your mind. I almost forgot that Miss Ye is just a Core Formation cultivator,” the Demon Empress smiled.

This sounded like an apology, but it sounded more like: Sorry, you’re too weak, I accidentally read your mind.

No matter how strong you are, you’re still a Core Formation cultivator. Dao Integration is Dao Integration. The gap between the two is like heaven and earth, insurmountable.

“Although the Demon Realm is now stable, if you go into seclusion in the future, who can guarantee his safety?”

Yao Meng said indifferently, “But if he stays in the Eastern Continent, whether he is in the Two Polarities Sect or the Jade Pool Holy Land, no one will hurt him.”

“If he stays in the Eastern Continent and is so safe, how did he die?” The Demon Empress’s tone was indifferent, but she did not hesitate to expose the Jade Empress’s scars and sprinkle salt on them.

At this moment, Gong Lianyue, who was coldly watching the enchanting Demon Empress, said, “If a cultivator from the Eastern Continent becomes a high-ranking member of the Demon Realm, or even stays in the Demon Empress’s palace, I’m afraid it will be ridiculed by both the Eastern Continent and the Demon Realm. Does the dignified Demon Empress not even consider this?”

Yao Meng’s beautiful eyes flashed with a complicated look, and she pursed her lips, maintaining her usual indifference. She also said, “What Palace Master said is right. If a cultivator from the Eastern Continent rashly went to the Demon Realm, even if you protect him, have you considered what others would say?”

Ye Lingxuan immediately followed up, “You’re just considering the surface, not truly for Brother Mu’s sake.”

She paused and continued, “As for the seniors, you are far superior to Brother Mu in terms of both age and cultivation. Have you ever thought about how much pressure he would have to be with you?”

Only I am similar in age and cultivation to Brother Mu, and I know how to think for him.

Brother Mu and I are a match made in heaven. You are just a group of vixens who want to eat young grass. You are always thinking about letting him drive a big car.

Although Ye Lingxuan didn’t say these words out loud, her low EQ translation was roughly what she meant.

We’re fighting… As expected, I shouldn’t have been watching from the sidelines… Seeing that a fight was about to break out, Mu Zhian’s heart sank. He spoke in a timely manner, “Since everyone is here, why not sit down and have a cup of tea and chat slowly?”

As this gentle voice echoed in the Heavenly Court, a bronze table appeared in front of them, with teacups and rising steam.

At the end of the long table, a young man shrouded in black mist appeared in everyone’s sight.

He had deliberately changed his voice, and coupled with the spiritual energy in the Heavenly Court to cover his aura, no one noticed.

Although Mu Zhian had planned to observe for a while longer, if he continued to watch, he might have to choose between the Forbidden Zone, the Sword Palace, the Jade Pool, or the Demon Realm.

“Who are you?”

Gong Lianyue looked coldly at the figure shrouded in black mist at the end of the long table and asked.

“Everyone must have an answer in their hearts, right?” Mu Zhian used the power of the Heavenly Court to change his voice and spoke in a gentle tone.

“The owner of the Heavenly Court?” Yao Meng narrowed her eyes and looked at the man in front of her with some doubt.

Gong Lianyue also stared at him. For some reason, although he was a little unfamiliar, he had a strange sense of familiarity.

“Why are you afraid to show your true self?” Ye Lingxuan asked.

“My appearance is related to your hearts. The more confused you are, the more blurred my figure will be,” Mu Zhian said.

The new Heavenly Dao, Yuanluo, was presented in a way that Mu Zhian liked. He directly copied Yuanluo’s ‘setting’ now, and there was no flaw at all.

“There really is a master in the Heavenly Court…” The Demon Empress’s beautiful eyes flickered. “Why did you invite us to the Heavenly Court?”

“I sensed that you were fighting over a young cultivator, so I had to come forward to mediate,” Mu Zhian said with a smile.

“I know that the young cultivator is handsome and talented, a rare talent, but I still hope that you can consider the Nine Provinces.”

“You should all know that under the restrictions of the rules of heaven and earth, Dao Integration experts are absolutely not allowed to use their full strength.”

The Nine Provinces were very large. Not to mention the Nine Provinces, even a single Eastern Continent could not be reached by ordinary cultivators on foot for ten years.

But the Nine Provinces were too big to withstand the attacks of four Dao Integration experts.

These words were very pertinent, and everyone present knew it.

“Why should a newly emerged Heavenly Court Master care about the affairs of the Nine Provinces?”

However, at this moment, Ye Lingxuan suddenly questioned, which also made everyone’s eyes focus on Mu Zhian again.

Her expression was indifferent, her sitting posture was straight and elegant, and her dress outlined her already sizable breasts. Her beautiful eyes, like those of a mystical creature, stared at the young man under the black mist.

“In the past, I was asleep due to some things. This time, I was awakened by the commotion caused by everyone. I had to intervene. I just hope everyone can be rational,” Mu Zhian said, half-truthfully, making it difficult to distinguish the truth from the falsehood.

The Demon Empress looked at him casually.

Although she had suspected his identity at first, she couldn’t read his mind. He must be an existence of the same realm as her.

Even if he wasn’t the real master of the Heavenly Court, he must be a powerful being in the Heavenly Court.

“Since you know the whole story, then you should know who is more suitable for him,” Yao Meng suddenly asked, her green eyes filled with a deep meaning.

“This matter should be decided by him, but I think even he wouldn’t want you to fight over him.”

Mu Zhian said slowly, “With the Demon Empress’s methods, I’m sure you have a way to contact him. Why do you have to take him back to the Demon Realm?”

“As for the people of the Eastern Continent, you don’t have to be stubborn about whether he goes to the Jade Pool Holy Land, the Forbidden Zone, or the Sword Palace… In a compromise, let him stay in the Two Polarities Sect, wouldn’t that be fine?”

Silence.

The Heavenly Court fell into a brief silence.

Mu Zhian’s back was already covered in cold sweat, but on the surface, he was still calm. He secretly observed the expressions of the beauties.

Fortunately, there was a black mist covering him. If his identity was exposed here, they would probably start fighting in the Heavenly Court.

At this moment, Mu Zhian suddenly felt a slightly abrupt gaze looking at him with doubt. He followed the gaze and met those green eyes.

Yao Meng was holding her fragrant cheek with one hand, her full chest pressing on the table, her eyes looking at him playfully.

Mu Zhian’s heart skipped a beat and he immediately looked away.

Yao Meng slightly curled her lips and withdrew her gaze, saying, “As long as someone gives up on taking Mu Lang back to the Demon Realm, I have no objections to other matters.”

The Demon Empress narrowed her eyes and glanced at the Jade Empress.

Although she wanted to say something, she remembered what the others had said. The Demon Empress seemed to give up and pinched her eyebrows, sighing softly, “Fine.”

She had indeed not considered that Mu Zhian might not want to go to the Demon Realm. On the other hand, if he went with her, the demons below would inevitably gossip about him.

It’s a relief that the big shots in the pond are temporarily separated… Seeing that the Demon Empress had given up, Mu Zhian was relieved. He immediately looked at the others and smiled as he started to chat with them again.

At this moment, Yao Meng looked at the others and suddenly smiled. “I still have some things to do, so I’ll leave first if there’s nothing else.”

After she finished speaking, she turned into a green light and disappeared from the Heavenly Court.

Mu Zhian chatted for a while longer and answered some questions about the Heavenly Court.

Then he stopped at the right time and said with a smile, “The path to immortality that the Heavenly Court has descended this time is still not the real path to immortality. If there is nothing else, fellow Daoists, you can return to the Nine Provinces.”

He had said enough, and one more wrong word or action might expose him. It was too risky to continue.

…

Mu Zhian slowly opened his eyes and saw the gloomy sky.

Although the weather was not very good, he let out a long sigh. “I can finally rest easy for now.”

It had to be said that the dragons and the fishes were completely different. They would really fight… And their every move might affect the future situation of the Nine Provinces.

The difficulty of the operation was getting higher and higher. I have to be more careful in the future… Mu Zhian muttered to himself, climbed out of the coffin, and stretched.

“You’re sweating a lot. Were you nervous about your performance just now?”

A gentle and sweet voice came from beside him. She took out a handkerchief and carefully wiped the cold sweat from Mu Zhian’s forehead.

Mu Zhian’s heart warmed, and he subconsciously said, “Thank you—”

He suddenly paused, and slowly turned his head to look.

Then, his gaze froze.

“…Yao Meng.”

Chapter 364: This Time, It’s Really the Doghouse p1

Mu Zhian sat on the coffin behind him, his hands clutching the edge of the coffin, trembling slightly.

Four Dao Integration experts, and one was an ‘artificial being’ created by Ye Lingxuan in the past, possessing self-awareness, and also one of the nine reincarnations of the Reincarnated Empress.

In the past, when Gong Lianyue and the Jade Empress had conflicts, Mu Zhian was at least present and could mediate the atmosphere in time, or Mengrou could come to the rescue.

But now… he had just gone to the abyss, and things had already turned out like this.

Mu Zhian murmured, “Isn’t the Demon Empress looking for Sect Master? Why are Yao Meng and Ruoxi here…? When did Lingxuan come here? What should I do now…?”

At this moment, Mu Zhian was numb.

Logically speaking, shouldn’t they be preparing for the Ascension Ceremony?

“They should know when to stop. You should go back to the Two Polarities Sect first.”

Ye Qingxin’s voice came from within Mu Zhian’s mind, but this time even her tone was a little less confident.

Mu Zhian felt the spiritual energy erupting in the air, and he looked up at the graceful figures in the rain curtain, barely calming himself down. “No, I can’t go… If I leave, there will really be no one to clean up the mess.”

“With your current realm, even if you are here, it probably won’t make much difference… If my true body could descend from the Heavenly Court, there might be some way.” Ye Qingxin shook her head and said softly.

That was true, but even if her true body was here, Ye Qingxin would probably just take Mu Zhian away instead of stopping the commotion.

Mu Zhian didn’t answer, seemingly paralyzed on the coffin, but in reality, a brainstorm had already begun in his mind, and his mind was spinning rapidly.

Then, after thinking for a while, he gradually gave up thinking.

No, in the face of absolutely terrifying power, no matter how he thought about it, it was impossible to stop them with his Core Formation cultivation.

Fortunately, I have already prepared a coffin for myself… I don’t have to worry about not having a place to lie down later.

It was rare for Mu Zhian to have the mood to joke at this time.

He turned his head and glanced at the closed coffin behind him. After thinking for a while, he muttered to himself as if giving up, “Should I just lie down in advance before they decide the winner…?”

At this moment, the raindrops suddenly froze in mid-air.

Then, the surrounding environment instantly turned gray, as if only Mu Zhian was in color at this moment.

Then, a mysterious black mist silently enveloped him, and Mu Zhian soon felt the wonderful touch of a soft and delicate body behind him.

A woman in a black dress stretched out her slender and beautiful jade-like hands and hooked them around his neck from behind.

The body fragrance within reach, faintly drifting from her raven-black dress, lingered around the tip of his nose, had a kind of warm feeling that Mu Zhian was quite familiar with.

“It seems that you have encountered some small troubles?”

The previously noisy sound had completely quieted down. When he heard this pleasant voice, Mu Zhian almost subconsciously turned his head to look.

“…Primordial Witch?” He softly called out the other party’s name.

Then, Mu Zhian immediately reacted and continued, “You’re awake?”

The Primordial Witch smiled and did not answer.

Mu Zhian soon discovered that her figure seemed a little blurry, and her sexy and tall figure was almost hidden in the black mist, faintly revealing a kind of hazy beauty that was not very real.

“According to what you just said… do you have a way?” Mu Zhian asked again.

The four Dao Integration experts, even if they still had some reservations, were already extremely terrifying, and it was not something ordinary people could stop.

More importantly, if they got angry, Young Master Mu would be the one to suffer.

“The person who has a way is not me, but you,” the Primordial Witch said calmly.

Her pair of enchanting and mysterious beautiful eyes were full of breathtaking charm. Even just meeting the Primordial Witch’s gaze made people feel uncontrollably attracted to her eyes.

Mu Zhian frowned slightly and said in his heart that if I had any way, I wouldn’t have planned to lie directly in the coffin.

“The answer lies in that coffin,” she said softly at this moment.

Tap tap.

The raindrops fell again, hitting Mu Zhian’s face. The cool and moist touch made him wake up from his dazed state.

For a moment, Mu Zhian even thought he was just dreaming.

“What happened to you just now? You suddenly seemed to be in a daze?”

At this moment, Ye Qingxin’s voice suddenly came from Mu Zhian’s heart, pulling him back to reality from his dazed state.

“I was just in a daze…?”

Mu Zhian raised his head, but he could no longer see the figure of the Primordial Witch.

Mu Zhian used his Spiritual Sense to scan his Innate Celestial Furnace. The Primordial Witch was still sleeping in his Innate Celestial Furnace.

This is strange. Did I really hallucinate just now…?

The Primordial Witch did have the power to rewrite time. She should have appeared just now, but then she returned to his body on her own?

Mu Zhian gradually calmed down and turned his gaze to the ancient coffin behind him.

If the conversation between himself and the Primordial Witch just now was not an illusion, then this ancient coffin, could it really have some origin?

Mu Zhian’s eyes flickered slightly. He gently jumped off the coffin, then reached out and gently stroked the surface of the coffin.

He gently pressed on the closed coffin lid and slowly pushed it open.

There was no one in the coffin, only enough space for one person.

Recalling what the Primordial Witch had just said, Mu Zhian simply hardened his heart and lay down directly in it.

Almost at that moment, a strong sense of dizziness hit his brain. Mu Zhian felt his consciousness become hazy, and his vision gradually turned pitch black.

“His consciousness is disappearing…?”

Ye Qingxin almost immediately noticed this scene and was about to pull Mu Zhian’s consciousness back.

However, at this moment, she suddenly felt a strong spiritual energy pouring into the Innate Celestial Furnace.

That spiritual energy did not belong to the Nine Provinces!

Ye Qingxin’s movements stopped, and her eyes flashed with a hint of surprise.

Heavenly Court’s spiritual energy!

When Ye Qingxin’s fiery and charming figure left Mu Zhian’s body, she found that she had already appeared in the Heavenly Court.

She almost subconsciously looked towards the young man beside her. Her enchanting red eyes flickered slightly, and she whispered to herself, “This ancient coffin is actually a path to the Heavenly Court…?”

Her judgment was indeed correct. Mu Zhian was the key to opening the Heavenly Court. Apart from him, no one else in this world could open the passage to the Heavenly Court!

It was just that even Ye Qingxin didn’t expect that Mu Zhian would bring her consciousness along with him into the Heavenly Court.

“The Primordial Witch is indeed related to the Heavenly Court… Could it be that the one who left that ancient coffin was the Primordial Witch?”

Mu Zhian whispered to himself. His slender figure was set off by a black robe, making him look noble and elegant. His body seemed to have a faint white light flowing on it, like a young god.

However, his body was shrouded in black mist, making it difficult to see him clearly.

Unlike the last time, Mu Zhian could clearly feel that his control over the Heavenly Court had increased a lot this time.

He could even roughly sense the size and structure of the Heavenly Court.

But why is the Heavenly Court hidden in a coffin…? Could it be that the former ‘Lord of the Heavenly Court’ hid a Heavenly Court no less than the size of the Eastern Continent in a small coffin?

If I could bring Yao Meng and the others into this Heavenly Court to discuss things…

As soon as this thought flashed through his mind, a long bronze table quietly appeared in this Heavenly Court filled with spiritual energy, and then several chairs appeared side by side.

This Heavenly Court could sense his thoughts and actively fulfill his wishes!

In the next moment, Mu Zhian suddenly sensed that several familiar auras were entering this place one after another.

“Mengrou has saved me again…” Mu Zhian murmured.

If it weren’t for the reminder from the Primordial Witch, he wouldn’t have been able to discover the secret of this ancient coffin so quickly.

Soon, Mu Zhian sensed several consciousnesses entering the Heavenly Court.

Vaguely, he could even hear their conversations.

“This feeling is quite novel. I can see everything in the Heavenly Court while sitting here…?” Mu Zhian was filled with surprise.

At this moment, everything in the Heavenly Court was under his control. He was the writer of the rules of the Heavenly Court. In other words, as long as he was in the Heavenly Court, his identity would not be discovered by them.

Next, he just had to put on a good show…

…

Chapter 363: The Grail War!

The borderlands were eerily quiet, and a light rain began to fall from the gloomy sky.

Three Dao Integration experts stood facing each other, their every move seemingly filled with terrifying pressure. Although they were beautiful beyond compare, no cultivator dared to look up at them.

From the beginning, some cultivators had already sensed the dangerous aura and had preemptively burned their spiritual energy to flee on their swords.

The Demon Empress narrowed her beautiful eyes and said coldly, “If I remember correctly, the Jade Empress used the Pure World Lotus to suppress the First Demon Emperor in the past. After thousands of years of wear and tear, only a wisp of her consciousness remains.”

Yao Meng frowned slightly and asked, “What are you trying to say?”

The Demon Empress unconsciously curled her lips and said faintly, “If I remember correctly, Young Friend Mu once went to the Forbidden Zone with the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone. He must have been looking for the Rebirth Water for you. After that, the two of you went to the Jade Pool Holy Land to wait for the Heavenly Pill Phoenix Tree to bear fruit. From the looks of it, he only dual cultivated with you to help you reshape your body.”

“As for calling you ‘Sister Jade Empress,’ there’s nothing to brag about… The more one lacks something, the more they want to show it off. I think this saying is perfectly embodied in the Jade Empress.”

Although her words were understated, Yao Meng’s usually calm eyes gradually showed a hint of coldness.

But her expression remained unchanged, and the coldness in her eyes disappeared in an instant. Instead, a beautiful and kind smile appeared on her face. “At first, I really did treat him as a junior, but after that, I gradually developed feelings.”

At this moment, Gong Lianyue suddenly sneered. “Is the so-called affection based on stealing another person’s husband? If word of this got out, the Jade Empress would probably be ridiculed by all the cultivators in the world.”

Yao Meng glanced at Gong Lianyue lightly, then swept her gaze over the Demon Empress and said faintly, “If I am stealing another person’s husband, then what is the Palace Master? You and Bai Ruoxi are two different consciousnesses. Isn’t it a bit inappropriate for you to also consider yourself his Dao Companion?”

The Demon Empress raised an eyebrow and said coldly, “The matter of Gong Lianyue is not important for now. But the Jade Empress does not deny that she stole someone else’s husband?”

Yao Meng smiled faintly. “I already mentioned this matter to others on the Southern Bank. Naturally, I will not deny it now. Besides, Miss Bai also knows about this matter.”

She paused, glanced at the Demon Empress inadvertently, and said, “However, what does my relationship with Mu Lang have to do with our Demon Empress? Why are you so concerned about this matter?”

“Or is it that the dignified Demon Empress has taken a fancy to a Core Formation cultivator’s Innate Celestial Furnace? Did you stop me from looking for him just now out of jealousy?”

It could be said that she was trying to kill people and condemn their hearts.

These words made it impossible for the Demon Empress to refute. I admit that I cuckolded Bai Ruoxi, and she knows about it, but this is our ‘family matter.’ What does it have to do with you, the Demon Empress?

You, a person who has always been in the Demon Realm and has never left a few times, why are you stopping me from going to the abyss?

At this moment, there was a sudden sound, and the air seemed to vibrate.

Gong Lianyue was dressed in a beautiful white dress that fluttered in the wind, faintly revealing a pair of long, fair legs. There was a cold look in her eyes.

“The Jade Empress has the most outstanding beauty in the world. If you want to find a Dao Companion, what man in this world can’t you find? Why do you have to choose him… Do you have to oppose me?”

In the abyss, a cold wind blew past. Yao Meng smiled faintly and said, “If it were Miss Bai, that would be fine. But you and Mu Lang have no relationship.”

“Besides, he’s very capable in all aspects. Why can’t I choose him as a Dao Companion?”

Gong Lianyue’s eyes gradually turned cold, and although Yao Meng was smiling, it was obvious that she was also in a bad mood.

Boom!

In the next moment, the entire sky was filled with a deafening roar, as if the entire Nine Provinces were shaking.

Gong Lianyue slowly pulled out the ancient bronze sword from the ravine. In the next moment, the bronze sword in her hand emitted a dazzling golden light.

However, at this moment, a green lotus also bloomed in the air.

The green lotus blossomed with ten thousand forms. When the Pure World Lotus blossomed, it seemed to contain the creation of heaven and earth. The green light quietly enveloped most of the sky.

The Demon Empress narrowed her beautiful eyes. Looking at the two Dao Integration experts fighting, she hooked her finger, and the World-Snatching Serpent in the demonic mist quietly appeared, seemingly eager to try.

“No matter what, the two sisters are fighting over Brother Mu. Senior, it’s best not to interfere.”

However, at this moment, a clear and melodious voice suddenly sounded in the sky.

The Demon Empress looked up and saw a young girl in a light purple dress.

Her long hair fluttered in the cold wind, and she had a delicate and pretty face. She had a pair of clear and bright purple eyes, and she carried her hands behind her back, with golden chains wrapped around her body.

The dress was not very luxurious, but it just right to set off the youthful beauty that was appropriate for this age. Her hair was loose, and there was a faint smile on her face.

The Demon Empress’s charming eyes flashed with a trace of doubt. “Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone? What are you doing here?”

“There seems to be quite a commotion in the abyss. I was a little worried about Brother Mu, so I came to take a look.”

Ye Lingxuan smiled politely and glanced at the abyss. “But it seems that Brother Mu is still in the abyss?”

If it were an ordinary cultivator, even a simple action or look from the Demon Empress would probably put a lot of pressure on them. However, Ye Lingxuan still had a polite smile on her face.

Although she was still only in the Core Formation Realm, she had been a Dao Integration expert in the past, and she had entered the Dao Integration Realm more than once.

To Ye Lingxuan, the Demon Empress did not have much of an intimidating effect.

Moreover, Ye Lingxuan’s attention was completely on Mu Zhian at this moment.

“If I remember correctly, Ye Yu, who entered the abyss earlier, is your brother, right? He and your Brother Mu are on bad terms. But it seems that you prefer Mu Zhian, who has no blood relation to you?”

The Demon Empress said flatly, but there was a hint of displeasure in her tone.

If it had been the Jade Empress and Gong Lianyue who had appeared earlier, which made her feel a little unhappy, then Ye Lingxuan’s appearance now made her completely annoyed.

Bai Ruoxi had fallen for Mu Zhian since Tianxuan City. This was understandable.

And the Jade Empress was revived with Mu Zhian’s help. It was not strange that they fell in love over time.

But according to the information from the Demon Realm, Ye Lingxuan had grown up in the Ye family since she was a child. Her brother should be Ye Yu… And Ye Yu and Mu Zhian were on bad terms. So why did she call him ‘Brother Mu’ so intimately?

One vixen after another, this made the Demon Empress, who had just awakened her past life memories not long ago, feel a surge of nameless anger in her heart. She looked at Ye Lingxuan with increasing coldness.

It seemed that she had been too kind at the beginning.

He could not be allowed to stay in the Eastern Continent.

She had to be in seclusion for half a year. If she let Mu Zhian stay in the Eastern Continent, who knew what would happen?

No matter what he thought… she had to take him back to the Demon Realm!

Ye Lingxuan smiled faintly. “Brother Mu treats me and Qian’er very well. It’s normal for me to like Brother Mu.”

She paused and continued, “I have no interest in the matters between Senior and Sect Master. But I hope that Senior will make way. I want to go and pick up Brother Mu.”

After she finished speaking, Ye Lingxuan flew towards the abyss on her sword.

“If you go any further, it will be the Demon Realm. If an Eastern Continent cultivator steps into the Demon Realm, I can’t guarantee that I won’t suppress you.”

However, at this moment, the Demon Empress’s seductive voice suddenly came from behind her, but her eyes were filled with indifference.

Ye Lingxuan’s figure paused slightly, and she turned her head slightly to glance at the Demon Empress behind her. “Senior should not be so pedantic. Why make things difficult for a junior?”

The so-called Eastern Continent cultivators could not enter the Demon Realm was just an excuse.

How many Eastern Continent cultivators went to the Demon Realm to train every year? The Demon Empress was not unaware of this. She was saying this now, obviously because she did not want her to go to the abyss.

But why was this…?

As if she had guessed what Ye Lingxuan was thinking, the Demon Empress glanced at the battle between the Jade Empress and Gong Lianyue in the sky and said indifferently, “Your Brother Mu has sworn allegiance to me. After this, I will take him back to the Demon Realm.”

“As for you, Miss Ye, you’d better not disturb him.”

Heh.

Ye Lingxuan’s lips curled into a faint smile. She looked at the Demon Empress and maintained her elegant demeanor. “There are many talents in the Demon Realm. Why must Senior be entangled with Brother Mu? Or is it that… you’ve taken a fancy to the Innate Celestial Furnace?”

These words seemed to have lowered her stance, but they were actually forcing the Demon Empress to retreat.

However, the Demon Empress narrowed her red eyes and said faintly, “If I say that I want to take him back and have sex with him, what will you do?”

Ye Lingxuan was slightly startled, and a faint coldness flashed in her beautiful eyes.

She pressed her fingers against her pink lips and thought for a moment. Then she looked up at the Demon Empress and suddenly smiled.

“Senior, you should give up on me and Brother Mu. After all, Brother Mu and I are truly in love. We have already been intimate with each other.”

“His spiritual energy is very good—”

Before she could finish, a monstrous serpent burst out of the demonic mist and opened its bloody mouth, trying to swallow Ye Lingxuan.

However, at this moment, in the void, a beautiful woman in a white robe quietly appeared behind Ye Lingxuan.

She raised her hand and grabbed the attacking serpent.

With a screech, the serpent fell into the demonic mist.

Even the Demon Empress could not help but show a surprised expression.

The Reincarnated Empress’s ‘puppet’…?

However, a mere puppet was not enough to be her opponent!

The Demon Empress’s eyes turned cold, and the power of the Dao Integration Realm was undoubtedly revealed.

The trembling space instantly burst out with a terrifying power.

…

Mu Zhian stepped on his flying sword and unknowingly flew out of the depths of the abyss.

The light in front of him gradually appeared, and he could vaguely sense a vast spiritual energy.

“Be careful. There are more than one Dao Integration auras. I can’t guarantee that everyone outside the abyss has no ill intentions towards you.”

“If it’s really the Demon Empress fighting with Shang Yanfei, it’s best to leave this place as soon as possible.”

Ye Qingxin’s voice came from the bottom of Mu Zhian’s heart.

Although she could protect Mu Zhian’s consciousness, she still hoped that Mu Zhian would be more careful so as not to damage his body.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly. “Don’t worry, Sister Ye. I know what to do.”

He wasn’t a fool. How could he possibly use his Core Formation body to stop that level of battle?

Besides, whether it was the Demon Empress or Shang Yanfei, they were both Dao Integration experts who had cultivated for tens of thousands of years. Their experience was far richer than his, who was less than twenty years old.

…At least in terms of judging the pros and cons, they were definitely stronger than him. Naturally, they knew when to stop.

Of course, he was no match for them in bed.

But other than that, Mu Zhian didn’t think he was inferior to them in any way.

While he was thinking, a deafening boom suddenly came from his ears.

Along with it, there was also a flash of green light that flashed before his eyes.

Mu Zhian was stunned for a moment, and he suddenly raised his head to look.

Boom!

When he saw the familiar figures, his mind was like a bolt from the blue, and the coffin on his back fell to the ground with a thud. His face turned pale.

“Damn, am I seeing things? Why are they fighting…?”

Mu Zhian steadied himself, closed his eyes, and took a moment to compose himself before slowly opening them again.

Then, when he saw the scene before him, he sat down on the coffin.

Holding the coffin, his hands trembled slightly, and he muttered to himself, “…What should I do now?”

Chapter 362: Your Husband Is Great, But He’ll Be Mine in the Next Second

What exactly had happened outside, Mu Zhian was still unaware. He was currently inspecting the palace for any overlooked immortal treasures.

After searching for a while, he suddenly felt the entire abyss palace tremble violently, accompanied by an incredibly vast spiritual energy fluctuation.

“What’s with the commotion outside…?”

Mu Zhian couldn’t help but mutter to himself.

Could the Demon Empress really have started a fight with his Sect Master?

If they really fought, he wasn’t sure who to support. After all, they were both his wives, and he loved them both equally.

However, both of them were Dao Integration experts, with far more experience and cultivation than him. They should know when to stop, so he didn’t need to worry about it.

As Mu Zhian thought about this, a radiant light burst forth from within his body. Then, a graceful figure, condensed from red-gold light, appeared before his eyes.

Her black and red dress fluttered. Ye Qingxin’s pure and alluring face was visible, and wisps of flames danced around her. She stood on delicate and exquisite embroidered shoes, like a dancing fire spirit.

“It seems that the Demon Empress’s arrival at the borderlands this time might be related to Shang Yanfei,” Ye Qingxin said.

Mu Zhian said softly, “The Demon Realm and the Eastern Continent have always been at odds, but the Demon Empress is a very intelligent woman. She should know that directly confronting the Sect Master would only benefit other forces.”

While talking with Ye Qingxin, he had scanned everything in the palace. Indeed, there was nothing else.

Mu Zhian turned his gaze back to the ancient coffin in front of him.

After pondering for a moment, he stepped forward and tried to store the coffin in his storage ring.

However, the ring was unable to accommodate the coffin, which was only the size of a person.

“Strange, this coffin doesn’t look big, but my storage ring can’t hold it…?”

Mu Zhian muttered to himself in surprise.

“You’re not even sparing the coffin here…?”

Even Ye Qingxin was speechless. However, her eyes also flashed with a hint of doubt.

It was strange. Mu Zhian’s storage ring was of the sixth grade. Logically speaking, it should be easy to store a coffin.

“There’s no formation on this coffin… Try again?” Ye Qingxin said.

If Mu Zhian hadn’t mentioned this, she might have overlooked this easily missed detail.

Mu Zhian tried again, but the storage ring was completely unable to hold the coffin. Instead, there were faint signs of it cracking. Mu Zhian hurriedly put the ring away.

“It still doesn’t work… This coffin is indeed strange.”

He thought for a moment, then grabbed both sides of the coffin and directly lifted it.

The huge weight pressed down on him, but Mu Zhian’s path was to strengthen his physique, so he didn’t find it too strenuous. He directly carried it on his back.

“Sister Ye, let’s leave this place.”

Mu Zhian turned his head to look at Ye Qingxin, only to see her red lips slightly parted, looking at him with a somewhat stunned expression.

“Sister Ye…?” Mu Zhian called out again.

Ye Qingxin finally came back to her senses, looking at Mu Zhian like she was looking at a monster. After a while, she nodded slightly and turned into a wisp of spiritual consciousness, returning to Mu Zhian’s body.

A sixth-grade storage ring couldn’t hold the weight of the coffin, and ordinary cultivators would definitely not be able to lift it.

But Mu Zhian not only carried it on his back, but he also seemed to do it without much effort… This was a bit unbelievable.

Mu Zhian naturally didn’t know what Ye Qingxin was thinking at the moment. He carried the abyss coffin and flew out of the abyss along the original path.

Although he hadn’t reached the exit yet, Ye Qingxin vaguely sensed something and said softly, “There are more than two Dao Integration experts outside.”

More than two…? Could it be the Sect Master and the Spirit Dragon, or were there other forces from the Nine Provinces involved?

Mu Zhian’s mind gradually became active.

At this moment, Ye Qingxin continued, “In any case, they should know when to stop. You should return to the Two Polarities Sect first.”

Mu Zhian hummed in agreement.

He had the same idea as Ye Qingxin. Although the Demon Empress was arrogant, she was not irrational.

As for Shang Yanfei, that woman was as unfathomable as Ruoxi’s ample bosom. She wouldn’t easily get angry.

However, if someone provoked them at this time, they might be in big trouble.

Mu Zhian chuckled inwardly, carrying the abyss coffin as he flew out of the cave as a streak of light.

…

The Demon Empress stood in the air, her luxurious dress fluttering in the cold wind, her gaze fixed on the direction of the Two Polarities Sect.

She didn’t know what Shang Yanfei’s purpose was, but in any case, she couldn’t just go into seclusion like this.

At least before that, she had to force Shang Yanfei out of hiding.

Although her true body couldn’t go directly to the Two Polarities Sect, using this method, the other party would have to come out and fight.

It only required a little sacrifice…

But looking at it this way, this level alone wasn’t enough to make her come out?

The Demon Empress narrowed her beautiful red eyes. Although she was naturally charming, the pressure she exuded at this moment caused the entire border region to tremble faintly.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been to the border region. I didn’t expect to cause such a commotion as soon as I arrived.”

But just as the Demon Empress was about to speak again, she suddenly heard a clear and gentle voice in her ear.

Below the border sky, a beautiful woman in a palace dress appeared in front of the Demon Empress at some point.

She had a tall and slender figure, wearing a palace dress with black and white interwoven, outlining a curvy and alluring figure. Her ample bosom was impressive, and her long hair was like a waterfall, as if she had come from another world. She didn’t look like she had any cultivation at all.

A bronze ancient sword silently appeared behind her, exuding an ancient aura and shimmering with cold light.

If Mu Zhi’an were present, he would definitely sigh with emotion after marveling at the woman’s temperament and appearance: Why did Ruoxi’s breasts shrink after her evolution?

“Gong Lianyue?”

The Demon Empress’s eyes revealed a hint of surprise, and she looked at the beautiful woman in front of her. “I didn’t expect Shang Yanfei to not come, but you came first.”

“I should be the one saying that. Your aura is much stronger than before,” Bai Ruoxi, or rather, Gong Lianyue, who had been awakened earlier, narrowed her eyes and stared at the charming figure of the Demon Empress.

She could clearly feel that although the Demon Empress was a Dao Integration expert, after devouring the essence of the Primordial Demon Emperor, her aura had faintly grown stronger.

“Didn’t Shang Yanfei come out to see me? But you came instead? However, I don’t have anything to say to you,” the Demon Empress said, her voice soft and charming, but with an intimidating majesty.

“I don’t have anything to say to you either.”

Gong Lianyue smiled faintly. “I was just awakened by the commotion you made and came to take a look.”

“The Eastern Continent is not like the Demon Realm. If you cause such a commotion, be careful not to lose control in the end.”

Although it was spoken casually, her tone carried a hint of coldness.

Those who could reach the Dao Integration Realm were all top-notch existences in terms of talent and luck. Although the Demon Empress was powerful, the former Sword Palace Master was not inferior to her. Now that she had been awakened from her slumber, she naturally felt extremely displeased.

The chilling wind blew, and the rain fell.

As Gong Lianyue’s voice fell, the Demon Empress showed a charming smile. “Whether I lose control or not is not up to you to decide.”

“Since you’re not here to see me, then please leave.”

Gong Lianyue glanced at the Demon Empress, and a faint smile appeared on her beautiful face. She looked at the Demon Empress’s eyes as if she were looking at a defeated opponent.

The so-called ‘strength’ was not what she was pursuing now. Although she was awakened by the commotion caused by the Demon Empress today, she was not actually angry.

If anything, she should thank her.

After all, since the day she fell asleep, she had always hoped to wake up early.

I wonder how he is doing now… He entered the abyss and hasn’t come out yet. He might be trapped inside?

“Where are you going? If you go any further, it will be the Demon Realm.”

Just as Gong Lianyue was about to step into the abyss, the Demon Empress frowned slightly, vaguely guessing something, and softly stopped her.

“Do I need your permission to go anywhere in the Nine Provinces?”

Gong Lianyue glanced at the Demon Empress.

Their eyes met, and the rain fell on their bodies, but it couldn’t wet their clothes.

After an unknown amount of time, Gong Lianyue showed a charming smile and continued, “Besides, I’m not interested in your Demon Realm. I was just awakened by your disturbance and wanted to see my Dao Companion.”

“Your Dao Companion?”

The Demon Empress hovered in the air, her figure tall and graceful, looming in the pink demonic mist. Although it was difficult to see her clearly, it was inexplicably tempting, making people want to enter the demonic mist and see her charming face.

The wind seemed to blow her dress, faintly revealing a pair of white and beautiful legs, as white and delicate as congealed fat, without losing any beauty.

It was truly alluring, but there were very few people in this world who dared to look at her.

“If I remember correctly, the Sword Palace Master single-handedly established the Heavenly Palace and never had a Dao Companion. How come after two lifetimes, you suddenly have a Dao Companion?”

The Demon Empress looked back, and her seductive voice echoed in the abyss, seemingly containing a hint of displeasure.

Gong Lianyue’s eyes gradually turned cold. “I’ve never seen the Demon Empress interested in other people’s relationships before. Why are you so concerned about mine today?”

Even a fool could sense the Demon Empress’s displeasure at this moment, let alone Gong Lianyue, who was involved?

But from the beginning, she and the Demon Empress had never been on good terms. She didn’t know where the other party’s hostility towards her came from…

“If I remember correctly, the body that the Palace Master currently occupies was born from the union of that girl from the Bai family and a cultivator, right? Bai Ruoxi’s Dao Companion, if I’m not mistaken, is just a cultivator who is less than twenty years old.”

The Demon Empress spoke on her own, “Could it be… you also like that cultivator?”

The word ‘also’ made Gong Lianyue narrow her eyes, and a dangerous glint flashed in her eyes. “What do you want to say?”

The dark sky seemed to have flashes of lightning.

Two Dao Integration experts, one charming and seductive, like a bewitching empress, while the other was more cold and aloof, like a plum blossom in the harsh winter, proud and piercing.

In the clash of their gazes, the Demon Empress’s alluring eyes were filled with a hidden meaning.

Then, she slightly curled her lips, revealing a beautiful smile.

“Nothing,” she said casually.

The casual tone made Gong Lianyue’s gaze turn even colder.

She glanced at the Demon Empress and chuckled, “That’s right, there’s nothing to say between us. I suppose you don’t know what it’s like to love someone. After all, you’ve spent your entire life pursuing the path to immortality.”

The Demon Empress said nonchalantly, “An Innate Celestial Furnace that can evolve as one’s realm improves is indeed worthy of the Palace Master’s affection.”

This was an insinuation that “You don’t understand love, you’re just after his body, and you make it sound so noble.”

Seeing that Gong Lianyue didn’t want to talk to her, the Demon Empress took a step back, feeling more and more annoyed. She casually asked, “Speaking of which, the Purple Yang Flower that I gave to the Palace Master as a gift, is it still working well?”

“Purple Yang Flower?” Gong Lianyue was taken aback, and her attention was completely drawn by the Demon Empress. A puzzled look appeared in her eyes.

Before she could ask, the Demon Empress slowly opened her right hand.

In her palm, a beautiful purple flower bloomed silently, looking enchanting.

Gong Lianyue stared at the Purple Yang Flower in the Demon Empress’s palm with some confusion. Then, as if she had thought of something, her eyes narrowed slightly.

Then, she reached into her bosom and slowly took out a Purple Yang Flower.

After awakening, Gong Lianyue had Bai Ruoxi’s memories, so she naturally knew the origin of this Purple Yang Flower.

This was given to her by Mu Zhi’an to conceal her demonic aura.

Bai Ruoxi initially thought that Mu Zhi’an had found this Purple Yang Flower in the First Demon Emperor’s storage ring, but now it seemed…

A terrifying thought flashed through Gong Lianyue’s mind.

“This Purple Yang Flower was given to me by that child. He really cares about his Dao Companion. For this treasure that can conceal demonic aura, he thought of every possible way,” the Demon Empress said casually, as if to confirm Gong Lianyue’s guess.

To ask the Demon Empress for a treasure that could conceal demonic aura for his Dao Companion… If this plot were slightly modified, it would definitely be an NTR story.

Gong Lianyue’s beautiful eyes gradually turned cold. “It seems that the Demon Empress is quite interested in my Dao Companion.”

“What does he have to trade with you?”

The Demon Empress smiled coquettishly. “Guess~”

Boom!

The ancient bronze sword behind Gong Lianyue emitted a dazzling light like the sun, hovering behind her, imposing and brilliant.

The Demon Empress raised her delicate finger, and a dark, obscure light faintly emanated from behind her, complementing her alluring red fingernails.

However, at this moment, a green lotus bloomed silently between the two, abruptly cutting off the dangerous and tense atmosphere between them.

“I didn’t expect Palace Master Gong to arrive before Shang Yanfei. I thought you would only awaken after Bai Ruoxi reached the Nascent Soul Realm.”

A celestial voice slowly drifted over the abyss. The voice seemed to contain a special Dao Rhyme, which gradually calmed the originally restless cultivators near the abyss.

Then, their eyes gradually filled with awe and fanaticism.

Some cultivators might not even see a Dao Integration expert in their entire lives, but today they had seen two or three Dao Integration experts in succession!

As the celestial voice fell, Gong Lianyue’s attention also shifted from the Demon Empress to the green-dressed beauty who appeared in the air at some unknown time.

“Jade Empress? Why are you here?”

Sensing Gong Lianyue’s undisguised coldness and hostility, and glancing at the seductive Demon Empress, Yao Meng’s lips curled up slightly.

She showed a faint smile on her beautiful face. “Who is the Palace Master looking for? I am looking for the same person.”

“I have no intention of disturbing the two of you. Please continue.”

As Yao Meng spoke, her gaze fell on the abyss.

She had originally planned to deal with the matters of the Jade Pool Holy Land before coming to the abyss, but since the Demon Empress had already made a move, she might as well take a look at his situation first.

“Is the Jade Empress planning to rashly enter my territory and oppose the Demon Realm?” the Demon Empress said coldly.

Her beautiful eyes, which were usually seductive, were now even colder, and her heart was rarely filled with a trace of depression.

She didn’t expect that not only had she failed to force Shang Yanfei out this time, but she had also attracted a bunch of these vixens.

…Gong Lianyue was indeed a vixen.

As for the Jade Empress… Although the world regarded the Jade Empress as a pure and untainted fairy, this fairy had been a bit too scheming since the beginning. Now, she had even seduced Mu Zhi’an and made him fall head over heels for her. Could this still be considered a fairy?

Yao Meng’s beautiful jade-like feet stepped on the void, and she glanced sideways, revealing a smile.

“I’m just looking for my Dao Companion. You don’t have to use the Demon Realm to pressure me.”

“Besides, I was able to suppress the First Demon Emperor back then. If I wanted to, I could also suppress you in the Pilgrimage Palace.”

Gong Lianyue sneered. “Dao Companion? If word of this got out, it would probably make people laugh. The dignified Jade Pool Fairy actually took the initiative to seduce a young cultivator who already has a Dao Companion. If people didn’t know better, they might think that the fairy has some special fetish for young boys.”

“We are truly in love. Besides, feelings shouldn’t be about who came first, but whether we truly love each other.”

“What do you think, Palace Master?”

Yao Meng smiled faintly as she spoke.

This was top-tier skill, turning the vibrant green of NTR into something so pure and refined, and for a moment, it was hard to find a reason to refute it.

The Demon Empress glanced at her lightly, and a charming smile appeared on her face. “What the Jade Empress says is true.”

She said casually, “So I think the Jade Empress must not know how gentle your Dao Companion is in front of me, right? If you agree, I can consider bringing him back to the Demon Realm after he leaves the abyss.”

Yao Meng’s expression remained unchanged as she admired the magnificent scenery in front of the abyss.

After a long while, she withdrew her gaze, looked at the charming and enchanting Demon Empress, and then glanced at the awe-inspiring and beautiful Sword Palace Master, and said in a calm tone:

“In that case, you probably don’t know how obedient he is in bed, calling me Jade Empress?”

The air suddenly froze.

Even the Demon Empress’s gaze froze.

Among those present, only the Jade Empress had the right to say these words.

The Demon Empress always said she wanted to have him, but she had never even touched Mu Zhi’an’s hand.

Gong Lianyue was even worse. Although Bai Ruoxi and Mu Zhi’an had been intimate, as another consciousness, Gong Lianyue had never had any intimate contact with Mu Zhi’an.

They were all just talking big, but the Jade Empress had actually slept with him… and more than once. Now her Vessel was even filled with Mu Zhi’an’s spiritual energy!

Yao Meng stared at the two of them and said softly, “You can wait until he comes out and ask him who he chooses.”

As she said this, she glanced back inadvertently.

In the depths of the abyss, Mu Zhi’an was slowly flying out on his sword, carrying a coffin.

At that moment, the atmosphere among the three became strangely silent.

Chapter 361: The Battle for Her Husband  p2

Mu Zhian pondered for a moment and said, “No matter what, I still have to thank Your Majesty for your help. If it weren’t for you, this junior might really be in danger.”

Even if it wasn’t dangerous, at least Ye Qingxin’s wisp of consciousness from the Heavenly Court would probably not be able to be preserved.

The Demon Empress smiled charmingly and looked at him. “You don’t have to thank me. The one who should say thank you is me.”

Mu Zhian’s eyes flashed with a hint of doubt, not understanding what she meant.

“If it weren’t for you, Shang Yanfei probably wouldn’t have let me devour the essence of the Primordial Demon Emperor,” the Demon Empress said quietly.

But the tone gradually turned cold.

No one knew what Shang Yanfei had been doing or what she wanted to do for the past ten thousand years… But since she awakened her past life memories, the Demon Empress had thought of many things.

The more she thought about it, the more she felt that Shang Yanfei was unfathomable.

In order to let herself enter seclusion, she did not hesitate to give her the essence of the Primordial Demon Emperor, giving her the possibility of breaking through the Dao Integration Realm… Should she say that Shang Yanfei was confident enough in her own strength, or that she had made a bad move?

Based on her understanding of Shang Yanfei, that Sect Master who had lived for countless years had never made any mistakes.

“It’s really unpleasant.”

The Demon Empress narrowed her eyes, and her red eyes flickered.

Then, as if thinking of something, her gaze turned to Mu Zhi’an with a smile.

Although this beauty’s every frown and smile were beautiful and soul-stirring, at this moment, Mu Zhi’an felt a chill in his heart and coughed lightly, changing the subject, “Speaking of which, Your Majesty, do you know the owner of this abyss palace?”

The Demon Empress was indeed attracted by his topic, and she elegantly tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “I don’t know who the owner of the abyss palace is, but the coffin used to contain the first Immortal in the early days of Chaos who reached the Immortal Ascension Realm.”

The Dao Integration Realm was the fusion of one of the three paths of Heaven, Earth, and Human, becoming a part of the world.

Above Dao Integration was the threshold of ‘Immortal’, which was Transcendence.

So far, no one in the Nine Provinces had transcended. The main reason was not only the restrictions of the rules of heaven and earth.

More importantly, Dao Integration was already the limit. Even if it was the Heavenly Dao, it could not do anything to a Dao Integration expert. If they broke through again, they would surpass the three paths of Heaven, Earth, and Human and resonate with the Great Dao.

“Actually, there were rumors that in the past, a Dao Integration expert broke through the limit and stepped into Transcendence, but they disappeared without a trace,” the Demon Empress said.

A Dao Integration expert disappeared without a trace. Who could abduct a Dao Integration expert…? Mu Zhi’an used his complaints to cover up the shock in his heart. “People often say that to transcend is to become an immortal… Could it be that they ascended to the Heavenly Court?”

“There are no Transcendent cultivators in the Heavenly Court either.”

Ye Qingxin’s voice came from within Mu Zhi’an’s body. “To this day, the only cultivator I know of who is suspected of being a Transcendent is the Lord of the Heavenly Court.”

After the three of them chatted for a while, the Demon Empress suddenly said casually, “In three days, I will enter a period of seclusion. After that, I’m afraid I won’t be able to see you again.”

Mu Zhi’an came back to his senses and respectfully said, “Although Your Majesty is in seclusion, with the Thirteen Seats of the Demon Realm here, the Demon Realm will surely flourish.”

“I’m not worried about the Demon Realm.”

The Demon Empress was silent for a moment, then casually glanced at him. “If I said that I hope you can come with me to the Demon Realm, what would you say?”

The First Seat beside her raised her eyebrows, as if she had thought of some bad scene, and silently turned her face away.

Mu Zhi’an hesitated for a moment, then tactfully refused, “The Demon Realm doesn’t lack a junior like me. But if I stay in the Two Polarities Sect, once there is any important news in the sect, I can also report to the Demon Realm immediately.”

This was a reasonable statement, but the Demon Empress was clearly not very satisfied.

But she didn’t force him. Instead, she continued, “There should be other inheritances in the abyss palace. Do you plan to leave with me now, or do you want to stay here?”

Mu Zhi’an pondered for a moment. “I am still an Eastern Continent cultivator in name. If I leave with you, the news might spread to the outside world.”

The Demon Empress nodded slightly. “In that case, you can leave on your own after this. If you have any other matters, you can contact me through that copper mirror.”

“But there are only three days left… In three days, I will be in seclusion.”

When she said the last part, she spoke softly, “Of course, before that, there is one more thing that needs to be dealt with.”

For some reason, when Mu Zhi’an heard these words, he felt a little uneasy, but he couldn’t put his finger on why.

Seeing that the Demon Empress had already turned to leave, the First Seat bowed respectfully towards Mu Zhi’an and gave him a strange look.

That look was like looking at some kind of rare creature… Mu Zhi’an smiled politely at her, always feeling that her eyes were a bit strange.

But he didn’t think much about it. After all, there were more important things to deal with.

The inheritance in the abyss palace should be more than just that drop of blood.

…

“Your Majesty, didn’t you plan to bring Young Master Mu back to the Demon Realm? Why did you leave him there instead?”

The First Seat turned into a streak of light and caught up with the Demon Empress, looking at the charming beauty and finally couldn’t help but ask.

“I wanted to, but there might be some things that happen after I enter seclusion. It’s safer for him to stay by my side. But since he’s not willing, there’s no need to force it,” the Demon Empress said softly.

The First Seat suddenly said, “Then does Your Majesty plan to return to the Demon Realm now?”

“Of course, it’s time to prepare for the refinement of the Primordial Demon Emperor’s essence.”

The Demon Empress licked her red lips and raised her bright red eyes, gazing faintly at the direction of the Two Polarities Sect.

“But before that, I still have something to ask our dear Sect Master.”

“Of course, I won’t go directly to the Two Polarities Sect… After all, in the Two Polarities Sect, even if we are both Dao Integration experts, no one is that woman’s opponent.”

“So we have to change our methods.”

The ground of the borderlands faintly trembled!

…

The abyss fell silent again. Mu Zhi’an turned and walked towards the ancient and mysterious coffin in front of the palace.

“Be careful, this coffin is a bit mysterious. Although the blood essence has been absorbed by you, there may be other dangers,” Ye Qingxin reminded him in his mind.

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly.

“By the way, Senior, since you are in my Innate Celestial Furnace, do you have any special feelings about that drop of blood essence?” he suddenly asked.

Ye Qingxin shook her head. “I have already scanned that drop of blood essence with my spiritual sense before, but I can’t see through it.”

Just a drop of blood had such terrifying power. He didn’t know what kind of strength the person in the coffin had… Perhaps it was really left behind by the Immortal of the Immortal Realm?

Mu Zhi’an felt a bit of emotion in his heart and at the same time confirmed whether there were any other inheritances left in the palace.

Soon, he found a medicinal herb in the corner of the palace.

“It formed a Emperor-grade medicinal herb naturally without any cultivation… This is rare,” Ye Qingxin said in surprise.

“Sure enough, there are no ordinary things in the abyss palace. Things that seem inconspicuous may be great opportunities,” Mu Zhi’an couldn’t help but sigh.

He put away the Emperor-grade medicinal herb, and then hesitated, “Senior Ye, do you not blame me?”

“If you’re talking about Ye Yu, then I don’t blame you… This is the hatred he caused himself out of jealousy,” Ye Qingxin said in a calm tone.

“But it’s meaningless to talk about this now,” she said softly.

Mu Zhian was silent.

However, he still felt a lingering sense of unease.

If the Demon Empress wasn’t lying, where did the Heavenly Dao Energy go after Ye Yu died?

And his luck value hadn’t changed at all after Ye Yu’s death.

If Ye Yu was really dead, his luck value shouldn’t still be at ’95’.

Boom!

As Mu Zhian was thinking about this, a terrifying aura suddenly came from the abyss palace, completely shattering Mu Zhian’s thoughts.

Then, a seductive voice that seemed to resonate with the Great Dao resounded throughout the Eastern Continent.

“Shang Yanfei, you schemed against me. Do you have anything to say?”

The usually peaceful Two Polarities Sect shook violently at this moment, and the ground cracked.

Almost at that moment, all the powerful beings in the Nine Provinces were awakened. Some old monsters who were in closed-door cultivation in their caves suddenly opened their eyes,  initially furious beyond measure, but then, after rushing out of their caves and realizing who had spoken, their anger subsided, and they fell silent, turning into a heartfelt fear.

At this moment, in the Two Polarities Peak, Lan Mulian was playing chess with her master.

She also heard that voice and subconsciously looked at the woman in front of her.

“Master…”

It had to be said that this was indeed a peerless beauty. Mu Zhian had seen her several times before. Every time he saw her, he would forget Shang Yanfei’s appearance, but he always had an amazing impression of her beauty.

“Don’t worry, let’s continue playing chess.”

Shang Yanfei tapped her finger on the table, as if she was thinking seriously.

Sensing the rare concern in her noble and cold disciple’s eyes, she raised her finger and changed the position of a chess piece.

Hmm… This should be enough to win.

However, at this moment, with the shaking of the ground, the chessboard on the Two Polarities Peak shook slightly, and the chess pieces fell.

In the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, Bai Ruoxi, who was sitting cross-legged on the soft couch, slowly opened her eyes.

In those usually cold and weak eyes, there was now a starry brilliance.

In the Jade Pool Holy Land, Yao Meng, who was looking up at the Heavenly Pill Phoenix Tree, slightly turned her head and glanced in the direction of the borderlands as the tremors subsided.

On this day, countless cultivators were alarmed.

After the death of the Primordial Demon Emperor, the Demon Empress succeeded to the throne. Since then, the Demon Realm and the Eastern Continent had been at peace. But now, the Demon Empress, who was worshipped as a god by the Demon Realm, had called out Shang Yanfei?

If two Dao Integration experts were to fight… the other forces would not be able to stay out of it.

And just as the people were uneasy, countless gazes subconsciously looked towards the location of the Two Polarities Sect.

They knew that the Demon Empress was looking for Shang Yanfei. Before she appeared, the Demon Empress, with her strong and domineering personality, would not let this go.

Tap, tap, tap…

Under the countless gazes, Shang Yanfei’s tapping on the table suddenly stopped, and she casually raised her eyes.

Chapter 361: The Battle for Her Husband  p1

A wisp of the Heavenly Dao’s will descended upon the Nine Provinces. On this day, cultivators across the land could vaguely sense the fluctuations between heaven and earth.

In the Garden of Heavenly Harmony within the Two Polarities Sect, heavy, lead-colored clouds slowly drifted in with the cold wind.

After a short while, the cold wind carried a fine rain, and the entire courtyard of the Garden of Heavenly Harmony was rendered extraordinarily hazy and beautiful by the drizzle.

Bai Ruoxi held a teacup in both hands, raised her head, and gazed in the direction where the will of the Heavenly Dao appeared, whispering, “The aura of the Heavenly Dao seems to be coming from the borderlands.”

There was a trace of worry in her eyes. “He went to the borderlands this time, and it just so happened that the will of the Heavenly Dao descended there. I wonder how Mu Lang is doing.”

In the courtyard’s pond, the snow lotuses swayed. Wei Mengrou looked up at the gloomy sky and said, “With Ye Qingxin accompanying him, there shouldn’t be any problems…”

Although she said this, there was also a trace of worry in her eyes.

The will of the Heavenly Dao would not easily descend. After all, even the Heavenly Dao itself needed to abide by the rules between heaven and earth. The fact that it could send down a wisp of its own will this time meant that someone had violated the rules of heaven and earth, so it could justifiably descend.

But why exactly…?

The young master had gone to the borderlands, and it just so happened that the will of the Heavenly Dao descended on the borderlands…

If he had done something that violated the rules of heaven and earth… it seemed that it could only be related to Ye Yu.

“How is the other consciousness in your body now?” Wei Mengrou suddenly asked.

Bai Ruoxi shook her head. “She hasn’t awakened yet, but she seemed to be startled when the will of the Heavenly Dao descended earlier.”

Among the several Dao Integration experts, Gong Lianyue was probably the most sensitive to the matters of the Heavenly Dao.

After all, she had already sensed the abnormality of the Heavenly Dao ten thousand years ago, so she severed her own Dao, cut off her connection with the Heavenly Dao, and turned to integrate with ‘humanity’.

Now that the will of the Heavenly Dao had manifested, Gong Lianyue could roughly sense it even in her sleep.

At this moment, Ye Lingxuan, who was not far from the two of them, suddenly whispered, “The will of the Heavenly Dao has disappeared.”

Beside her, a tall woman in a loose black robe stood quietly, like her guardian spirit, always secretly protecting Ye Lingxuan.

A smile appeared on Bai Ruoxi’s cold and delicate face. “Sister Lingxuan has a natural affinity with spiritual energy. If you say so, then I’m relieved.”

“But why did the will of the Heavenly Dao suddenly descend?” Ye Qian suddenly questioned in a soft voice.

The girls present also showed puzzled expressions. Only Wei Mengrou suddenly raised her head and stared at the white light that had gradually disappeared.

As for the reason why the will of the Heavenly Dao descended, there could be many possibilities.

But if it was combined with the location where it descended, the borderlands, then the scope was narrowed down a lot.

…Ye Yu!

Ye Yu had once fallen from being a genius to trash. Later, the Heavenly Dao bestowed luck on him, and after he became a person of great luck, he gradually began to rise and become one of the top geniuses in the Nine Provinces.

Ye Yu might have encountered an abnormal attack in the borderlands, so the will of the Heavenly Dao descended.

As for the abnormal attack…

Due to the restrictions of the rules of heaven and earth, Dao Integration experts could not easily make a move. This could be easily inferred from the fact that there could only be one Dao Integration expert in each generation.

After all, the methods of Dao Integration experts were too heaven-defying.

Wei Mengrou’s eyes flickered slightly, as if she had thought of something. She opened her eyes slightly.

A Dao Integration expert attacked Ye Yu…?

If their luck did not run out, it would be difficult for a Chosen One to die, because they would always find a way to escape in the dark.

But if a Dao Integration expert intervened by force?

The answer might be that the will of the Heavenly Dao would descend to stop it or protect the Chosen One.

In this way, Ye Yu might have already died?!

Or perhaps a Dao Integration expert took the lead in breaking the rules of heaven and earth, so the will of the Heavenly Dao could also descend to protect the Chosen One?

Wei Mengrou looked at the rain falling outside, her thoughts seeming to drift away with the rain.

At this moment, she suddenly noticed a slightly abrupt gaze and looked over subconsciously.

It was Miss Feiying, who had just come to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony this morning to look for the young master. She was holding her arms and leaning lazily against the pillar behind her, looking at her.

When Wei Mengrou looked at Lan Feiying, she quickly smiled and nodded, then withdrew her gaze.

She lowered her eyes slightly, and her beautiful eyes looked a little dim under the dim sky.

…

“Is Ye Yu dead?”

On the other side, the Demon Empress had decisively dealt with Ye Yu. Meanwhile, Mu Zhian and the First Seat of the Demon Realm had just arrived on their swords.

When he saw the wisp of the Heavenly Dao’s will being crushed by the Demon Empress, his eyes finally showed a bit of surprise.

Even if it was just a wisp of the Heavenly Dao’s will, it had a natural restraining effect on cultivators. As a result, the Demon Empress ignored the Heavenly Dao’s backlash and directly killed Ye Yu and Yao Shan?

“It seems that Ye Yu’s luck is indeed running out…” Mu Zhian muttered to himself.

The strength of the Heavenly Dao’s backlash was likely related to the Chosen One’s luck.

When the luck was high, it was more difficult to kill the Chosen One. Moreover, if a Dao Integration expert forcibly intervened and broke the rules of heaven and earth, the will of the Heavenly Dao would descend and backlash against them.

Conversely, if the Chosen One’s luck was greatly reduced, the backlash from the Heavenly Dao would be much smaller.

“Your Majesty, are you alright?”

Mu Zhian quickly noticed a trace of blood on the corner of the Demon Empress’s lips. The blood dripped down her fingertips and onto the ground. He immediately stepped forward and asked.

“She killed Ye Yu and suffered some backlash from the Heavenly Dao. But in this abyss, even the will of the Heavenly Dao cannot descend. That wisp of the Heavenly Dao’s will just now was just a clone of it.”

Ye Qingxin’s voice came from within Mu Zhian’s mind, her tone somewhat complicated.

Even the will of the Heavenly Dao can’t descend into the abyss…?

Mu Zhian was shocked.

The Demon Empress gazed at the sky, as if she could see through the abyss palace to the will of the Heavenly Dao that was gradually dissipating.

After a while, she retracted her gaze and said softly, “The Chosen One chosen by the Heavenly Dao, no wonder he has such talent and luck.”

“Ye Yu was able to transform from a piece of trash in the past. It must be because of the blessing of the Heavenly Dao’s luck.” Speaking of this, Mu Zhian glanced at his personal interface’s luck value.

However, this glance made him slightly stunned.

“Strange… My luck value hasn’t changed at all?”

Logically speaking, if Ye Yu was dead, his luck value should have become his.

After all, Ye Yu’s death was because he had participated in it.

But now his luck value was still ’95’, and there was no change.

The last time in the Two Polarities Sect, after Xiao Hua was executed by the Enforcement Hall, Xiao Hua’s luck, as the Chosen One, was transferred to Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace.

And now Ye Yu should be the same.

But now, the luck in his body hadn’t changed at all.

Could it be…

Mu Zhian’s eyes flickered slightly, and he looked at the empty abyss palace and suddenly said, “Your Majesty, how did Ye Yu die?”

“The World-Snatching Serpent I summoned devoured him and his teacher’s consciousness,” the Demon Empress said softly.

“Do you suspect he’s still alive?”

The Demon Empress seemed to have guessed Mu Zhian’s thoughts, and her voice was as gentle and calm as usual, making people suspect that the backlash from the Heavenly Dao just now had not caused her much trouble.

Mu Zhian was silent for a moment and said, “Perhaps.”

Before his luck value completely disappeared, the Heavenly Dao could always allow the Chosen One to ‘fortunately’ survive in various ways.

But Ye Yu died too quickly, and he didn’t even have the slightest chance to fight back.

Although a Dao Integration expert could indeed crush Ye Yu like an ant, when Ye Yu was swallowed by the World-Snatching Serpent, the will of the Heavenly Dao had already descended. If Ye Yu’s luck value had completely dropped to the bottom, the will of the Heavenly Dao would not have appeared.

This meant that Ye Yu’s luck had not yet reached the point where he would die.

Outside the abyss palace, dark, lead-colored clouds slowly gathered from afar. After they gathered together, thunder rumbled as if a rainstorm was brewing.

“Perhaps your feeling is not wrong.”

The Demon Empress paused and glanced at the bloodstain on her fingertip that had gradually healed. “If I had killed him directly, the backlash from the Heavenly Dao would not have been so small.”

Mu Zhian’s eyes showed a thoughtful look, and he suddenly asked, “Ye Yu still has a Heavenly Dao Energy on him. Did Your Majesty know where that Heavenly Dao Energy went?”

The Demon Empress glanced at him and shook her head. “I have never seen it.”

Mu Zhian frowned, keeping his silence.

He suddenly thought of an absurd possibility.

Perhaps, Ye Yu was dead… but ‘Ye Yu’ was still alive?

If that was the case, it could explain why Ye Yu’s luck value was not absorbed by the Innate Celestial Furnace after his death, and his personal interface did not react at all.

Yao Shan was an alchemist and might have had some kind of elixir that could allow him to escape. In addition, when the will of the Heavenly Dao descended, the Demon Empress’s attention would naturally be on the will of the Heavenly Dao.

If one assumed that Yao Shan had possessed Ye Yu’s body, what would he do next?

Flee the Eastern Continent?

With his current injuries, it was absolutely impossible.

The safest place now was, on the contrary, the Two Polarities Sect.

No matter how strong the Demon Empress was, she couldn’t chase after him to the Two Polarities Sect, because Shang Yanfei was there.

In any case, this trip to the borderlands had been a success.

Although he didn’t know what the drop of blood, suspected to be from an Immortal, was, since it could be absorbed by the Innate Celestial Furnace, there must be a way to ‘digest’ it.

He would investigate it slowly after returning this time.

 

Chapter 360: Slaying Ye Yu, Heavenly Dao’s Backlash

The palace was shrouded in countless formations, a mysterious black mist swirling within.

And beyond the black mist, outside the palace, an overwhelming demonic aura had gathered without anyone noticing.

From the moment she entered the palace, the Demon Empress hadn’t even glanced at Fang Long.

Only when Fang Long spoke did her eyes show a hint of confusion, glancing at him through the hazy demonic aura.

After a moment, she casually withdrew her gaze.

“Did you hear that? Even my subordinates in the Demon Realm know what will happen if you cut off contact with me. You’re usually clever, but it seems you have moments of dullness, too?”

Her voice, soft and gentle, echoed through the palace.

Seductive and alluring, her red lips curled into a mocking smile. She raised her eyes, her bright red pupils enchanting, her gaze fixed on Mu Zhi’an.

Although the palace had just been filled with a murderous aura, the moment the Demon Empress spoke, that aura seemed to freeze in an instant.

Fang Long was slightly stunned.

Yao Shan narrowed his eyes, looking at the scene with uncertainty. For some reason, he had a faint, ominous feeling.

Ye Yu subconsciously swallowed, his throat bobbing, his eyes filled with both an uncontrollable infatuation and a hint of doubt.

Even Ye Qingxin was equally puzzled.

At this moment, Ye Qingxin seemed to stand in the void, a red flame illuminating her black and red dress, making it even more vibrant. Her graceful body was hidden within the interwoven black and red flames, like a fairy of fire.

Her usually clear and beautiful eyes were now filled with confusion.

She had been prepared to burn this wisp of her consciousness to protect Mu Zhi’an. After all, with the First Seat of the Demon Realm present, no one in the Nine Provinces could confidently say they could defeat her, not to mention Ye Yu and Fang Long were also eyeing them.

However… the Demon Empress had appeared.

And she could clearly sense that this new Demon Empress, who had devoured the Primordial Demon Emperor, seemed to have no hostility towards Mu Zhi’an.

Judging from her tone just now, it was almost as if the two of them already knew each other!

Amidst the stunned silence of the crowd, Mu Zhi’an slowly raised his hand, bowed, and said, “This junior just felt that Your Majesty is busy day and night. If I were to disturb your important matters, I would also feel guilty.”

As these words fell, the air seemed to freeze for a moment, accompanied by Ye Yu’s rapidly accelerating heartbeat.

Indeed!

It wasn’t his imagination. Mu Zhian really did know the Demon Empress!

Mu Zhian is a spy from the Demon Realm. He must have colluded with the Demon Empress long ago!

But how was that possible? He was just a Core Formation cultivator. How could he have come into contact with a Dao Integration expert like the Demon Empress?!

Ye Yu’s mind was roaring, but on the surface, he didn’t even move, as if he were a statue.

No… it wasn’t that he didn’t want to move, but rather a deep-seated fear.

Ye Yu’s body trembled slightly, and not far away, Fang Long’s legs were already uncontrollably shaking.

The Demon Empress, known to the world for her captivating beauty and charm, exuded an irresistible allure that could drive any cultivator mad.

Even the current Ye Yu was captivated by her aura. Although he knew something was wrong, he found it difficult to move.

On one hand, it was due to an uncontrollable infatuation, and on the other hand, it was a deep fear of the Demon Empress, which made his feet feel like lead, completely immobile.

In the past, when he was in Tianxuan City, he had reported to the Two Polarities Sect that Mu Zhian was harboring a demonic cultivator. But at that time, he only knew about Bai Ruoxi’s identity as a demonic cultivator. He had no idea that Mu Zhian himself was connected to the Demon Realm!

“What do you think I should do?” the Demon Empress asked again, her voice soft and playful.

Her tone was playful, filled with an arrogance that looked down on the world, and her bright red eyes were filled with a teasing smile as she looked at Mu Zhian.

Mu Zhian raised his head and saw her alluring figure faintly visible within the demonic aura, and his heart couldn’t help but flutter.

This beautiful snake… was truly like a deadly poison. Even knowing the danger, one couldn’t help but be drawn to her.

Mu Zhian respectfully said, “It’s all up to Senior to decide.”

Fang Long’s body trembled, and he finally came to his senses.

He finally realized the situation, and his pupils contracted violently. He hurriedly said, “Your Majesty, this is all a misunderstanding—”

“Fool, shut up,” the Demon Empress said softly.

For some reason, even her scolding carried a hint of coquettishness, which was probably the innate charm of the Demon Empress.

Although it was inappropriate, Mu Zhi’an suddenly felt that being scolded by such a woman would be quite… stimulating.

However, Fang Long clearly didn’t feel any of that charm. The moment the Demon Empress spoke, an overwhelming pressure descended upon the palace, and the vast demonic aura almost completely enveloped it.

One moment she seemed far away, but the next, the Demon Empress was right in front of Mu Zhi’an.

Her seductive red eyes were filled with allure as she stood almost face-to-face with him, her breath warm against his skin.

Her exquisite face was filled with an indescribable charm, and Mu Zhi’an’s heartbeat quickened uncontrollably as he stared at her enchanting face.

Ye Qingxin frowned slightly, glancing at Mu Zhi’an without drawing attention. For some reason, she felt a pang of displeasure. She had enjoyed teasing him earlier, but seeing the Demon Empress act so forward was unsettling. It was even more disconcerting that Mu Zhi’an, usually a seasoned player, seemed so innocent and flustered before the Demon Empress, as if she held all the power. But there was nothing she could do about it.

Her clear and bright eyes, the sweet fragrance that escaped her slightly parted red lips, and her innate seductive aura—any man would appear as innocent as a pure boy before the Demon Empress.

This was the true body of the Demon Empress. Unlike the wisp of consciousness that had interacted with Mu Zhi’an before, the seductive aura she exuded now was something that even Nascent Soul cultivators couldn’t resist.

At first glance, she seemed seductive and charming, but upon closer inspection, one might find her pure and innocent. Another look might reveal her as a noble and aloof empress…

No matter what, one could always find a type they liked in her.

Fortunately, Mu Zhi’an had some resistance. He bit his tongue slightly to maintain his composure, lowered his eyes, and broke the silence. “Senior is joking. This person seems to be a demonic cultivator from the Demon-Devouring Rhinoceros clan of the borderlands, and his status is not low.”

“This junior dares not ask Senior to do anything. It’s alright for me to suffer a little grievance.”

Hearing this, Fang Long secretly breathed a sigh of relief, but his back was already drenched in cold sweat.

Besides a sigh of relief, he felt a surge of hatred towards Yao Shan and Mu Zhi’an.

The former had dragged him into this mess. He had thought it was a great opportunity, but he nearly lost his life.

As for the latter…

Mu Zhi’an was the center of this incident, and although he didn’t know why the Demon Empress was so ambiguous towards Mu Zhi’an, he guessed it was related to the forces behind him.

After all, Mu Zhi’an’s Dao Companion was the Jade Empress, and since Mu Zhi’an was a spy planted by the Demon Realm in the Eastern Continent, the Demon Empress likely needed some information he provided…

Thinking about it this way, everything made sense.

However, when Mu Zhi’an was no longer useful…

However, before he could secretly ponder the subsequent matters, he heard Mu Zhi’an’s reserved and gentle voice continue, “Although this junior is not a member of the Demon Realm, I hope that the Demon Realm will become better and better in the future… I think that even if it’s Your Majesty, if you so easily kill a clan leader of the borderlands, there will probably be some trouble in the future, right?”

At first glance, these words seemed to be no problem, but they were like a gentle knife, concealing a murderous intent.

Fang Long, a widely experienced demonic cultivator, naturally understood the killing intent in Mu Zhi’an’s words, and his heart skipped a beat.

The Demon Empress didn’t pay attention to the others, she just gently stroked Mu Zhi’an’s face, and then leaned down slightly, bringing her red lips close to Mu Zhi’an’s ear. She softly said, “If someone wants to hurt you, don’t let them off easily.”

Mu Zhi’an raised his head and looked at the alluring figure before him. After being silent for a while, he whispered, “Then what if… it’s someone from the Demon Realm?”

“Your Majesty—”

Fang Long suddenly raised his head. He realized that if he didn’t speak now, he might not have another chance to speak.

However, before he could finish speaking, a pink demonic aura silently enveloped the palace.

Red lights lit up in the demonic aura, and a giant, ethereal python opened its fangs, swallowing the Vice Clan Leader of the Demon-Devouring Rhinoceros clan in one bite.

There wasn’t even a hint of blood in the palace, and even the spiritual energy was completely devoured.

The Demon Empress’s alluring red eyes were filled with a teasing smile.

“If you like them, they’re all yours.”

When she said the last part, she glanced at Ye Yu inadvertently.

And just that casual glance made Ye Yu’s heart tremble violently. Only then did he finally realize his current situation.

This was a true Dao Integration expert, not a wisp of consciousness, but the true body of the Demon Empress!

Although she hadn’t refined the essence of the Primordial Demon Emperor yet, she had already vaguely touched the bottleneck of Dao Integration.

“Teacher!”

Ye Yu roared inwardly, his expression filled with terror.

Yao Shan’s eyes flickered, and he was equally terrified.

If they didn’t think of a way out, both he and Ye Yu would probably die here today.

Mu Zhi’an glanced at them casually, already sensing Ye Yu’s intention to retreat, but he didn’t say anything.

He wasn’t sure what the Demon Empress’s attitude towards him was. If he asked her to intervene now, he felt it would be too much.

If the Demon Empress really had designs on his body, then this scene was probably a reenactment of the historical event of “using the beacon fires to entertain the feudal lords.” (A story where a king repeatedly lit warning fires to amuse his concubine, eventually leading to the kingdom’s downfall when a real threat arrived and no one heeded the signals).

But what was her motive? Was she really just… interested in his body?

It was possible. After all, when the Demon Empress first appeared, she didn’t kill him because his Innate Celestial Furnace was interesting. She had used him as a spy in the Two Polarities Sect.

And after that, although he had interacted with her a few times, it was just a subordinate reporting to his superior.

However, ever since the Demon Empress gave him the authority to meet her directly… things seemed to have changed.

But no matter what, Ye Yu couldn’t die yet.

As for the reason…

Mu Zhi’an silently glanced at his personal interface, at his luck value.

Since he last checked, his luck value had increased to ’95’. Ye Yu’s luck must be dwindling.

However, he didn’t know exactly how much luck Ye Yu had left.

If he killed him now, he might trigger the Heavenly Dao’s backlash.

“Teacher, we have to go now!”

At this moment, Ye Yu suddenly roared in his heart. In that instant, Yao Shan immediately took control of Ye Yu’s body. He burned Ye Yu’s essence and instantly turned into a streak of light, rushing out of the abyss palace.

Faced with a Dao Integration expert who had descended in her true form, neither Yao Shan nor Ye Yu had any desire to fight. They just wanted to escape from the abyss palace alive.

The Demon Empress turned her head slightly to look outside the abyss palace, and a torrential demonic aura gradually filled her body.

“If you kill him now, you might suffer the Heavenly Dao’s backlash,” Mu Zhi’an said, seeing her reaction, and quickly reminded her.

“I know,” the Demon Empress whispered, looking up at Ye Yu, who seemed to be desperately trying to escape from the abyss. Her beautiful red eyes rippled slightly.

“But I said earlier, if you like something, I’ll give it to you.”

I want you. Will you give yourself to me…? Mu Zhi’an thought, then hesitated, about to speak.

However, at this moment, he suddenly felt the Demon Empress’s teasing gaze, and he was slightly taken aback. Then, his heart skipped a beat.

This woman can read minds!

Mu Zhi’an composed himself and said, “If Your Majesty really wants to deal with Ye Yu, perhaps you can wait a little longer.”

“If I’m not mistaken, there will be another good show soon.”

The Demon Empress was indeed intrigued by his words and asked with interest, “You’re so sure?”

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly.

“Someone who doesn’t even spare his own ancestor… who would feel safe around him?” he said softly.

At this moment, Ye Yu seemed to be burning with an intense fire. His face was extremely pale, but his aura was stronger than ever before.

After taking control of the body, Yao Shan directly burned Ye Yu’s essence. Although it consumed nearly half of his lifespan, as long as he was still alive, there would always be a chance for a comeback in the future.

“It seems we have successfully escaped danger.”

Ye Yu’s voice rang out, his tone carrying a hint of lingering fear, as well as intense hatred. “I didn’t expect Mu Zhi’an to collude with the Demon Empress. If I report this to the Two Polarities Sect…”

Yao Shan said quietly, “I’m also a little surprised. The Demon Empress is extremely arrogant by nature. A mere Core Formation cultivator wouldn’t be able to catch her eye. It seems that Mu Zhi’an has some secrets that have attracted her attention.”

“I didn’t expect that fool Fang Long to actually bring the Demon Empress here… If it weren’t for her, even if Mu Zhi’an died in the abyss, no one would have noticed,” Ye Yu’s voice was filled with anger.

“But fortunately, I’m still alive… After this, I must leave the Eastern Continent. When I return in the future, I will make Mu Zhi’an pay for his revenge.”

While Ye Yu felt regretful, he also felt a lingering sense of relief, secretly thinking about his future plans.

“With the Demon Empress’s strength, even if I burned my essence, I wouldn’t be able to escape her grasp… She must know about your luck, so she doesn’t want to kill you and suffer the backlash of luck,” Yao Shan said quietly.

“Backlash of luck? Teacher, do you mean that my luck is so strong that even a Dao Integration expert would be afraid of it?” Ye Yu was both surprised and delighted.

Yao Shan’s eyes showed a hint of coldness, and he said in a very subtle way, “In short, if someone wants to kill you by force, they will be backlashed by your luck.”

“There are only two ways to kill you. One is to wait until your luck is completely exhausted, and the other is… Ye Yu’s consciousness dies, but Ye Yu still lives.”

Ye Yu was stunned for a moment, as if he didn’t hear clearly.

“If my consciousness dies, how can I still be alive…?”

A thought seemed to flash through Ye Yu’s mind, and his face changed slightly. He said urgently, “…Teacher, what do you want to do?!”

He had been rushing all the way here, and he had consumed a lot of his spiritual energy. Now, his consciousness was extremely weak.

In the past, he had been slow to help Yao Shan nourish his consciousness, partly because he was afraid that Yao Shan’s consciousness would become stronger and take over his body.

But he didn’t expect that although Yao Shan’s consciousness had not become stronger, his own consciousness had become weaker at this moment.

“After you die, I will be Ye Yu. In this way, the Heavenly Dao will not backlash against me.”

Yao Shan’s eyes were already filled with a sinister coldness. His consciousness took the initiative and was devouring Ye Yu’s consciousness.

“Actually, if you had chosen to spare your ancestor today, perhaps I wouldn’t have made a move so soon… But your heart is too vicious.”

“People who deceive their masters and destroy their ancestors, I’m talking about you, Ye Yu.”

If he dared to attack his own ancestor today, who could guarantee that he wouldn’t poison his own teacher next time?

Such a Ye Yu could no longer be trusted.

“I’m not reconciled! I’m the Chosen One. How could I be devoured by you?!” Ye Yu’s consciousness was already extremely weak at this moment. He let out a low roar, gritted his teeth, and tried his best to resist the devouring of Yao Shan’s consciousness.

Yao Shan said coldly, “After you die, I will make the name Ye Yu become a Dao Integration expert in the Nine Provinces in the future. You can rest in peace.”

“No matter who uses this body, they can reach the pinnacle of cultivation, except for yourself. If it weren’t for its support, you wouldn’t even have reached the Core Formation Realm.”

The fall of these words made Ye Yu’s will waver. He subconsciously said, “It? Who is it?! Could it be that my luck is not innate?!”

Yao Shan showed a faint smile, trying to break down Ye Yu’s will with words. “Your luck is naturally not innate, but bestowed by the heavens. To be more precise, it’s because—”

“Because of the Heavenly Dao.”

The struggle for control of the body hadn’t ended when a soft, seductive voice suddenly echoed in their ears. To both Ye Yu and Yao Shan, this voice was like a nightmare, haunting them.

Then, they both discovered that the spiritual energy within the vessel was being rapidly drained!

Ye Yu’s heart trembled, and he looked up, his eyes bloodshot. He saw a stunningly beautiful woman emerging from the demonic mist.

She walked towards them step by step, a captivating smile on her face.

“The Demon Empress, why are you here?!” Yao Shan stared at the woman in fear.

He had thought that the Demon Empress would let Ye Yu escape, but he hadn’t expected her to follow them.

Seeing the spiritual energy in his body being devoured by the strange demonic mist and his consciousness gradually weakening, Yao Shan said urgently, “Release me, and I can sign a master-servant contract and become a member of the Demon Realm!”

“If I had the Myriad Transformations Cauldron, I might be able to refine an immortal-grade pill to help you ascend!”

The Demon Empress remained unmoved, gazing at him indifferently.

Yao Shan was both shocked and angry. “You can’t kill him! You can’t kill him! If you kill him, you’ll suffer the backlash of luck! This is a rule set by the Heavenly Dao. Even Dao Integration experts must obey this order!”

“Demon Empress, why are you helping a cultivator from the Eastern Continent? If you suffer the backlash of the Heavenly Dao, it might even affect your future cultivation…”

Ye Yu’s consciousness let out a terrified and desperate roar.

Why was she disregarding even the Heavenly Dao? If the Heavenly Dao retaliated, even a Dao Integration expert wouldn’t be able to withstand it.

Boom!

Just as Ye Yu’s consciousness was becoming weaker and weaker, almost dissipating, a loud rumble came from the sky outside the abyss, and a gentle white light silently enveloped the area.

The will of the Heavenly Dao!

At this moment, it was as if a corner of the sky had collapsed. On one side was a clear blue sky, and on the other was a deep darkness.

Drip…

The Heavenly Dao’s backlash caused a drop of blood to appear on the Demon Empress’s fingertip. Ye Yu looked up, as if seeing hope, but he was greeted by the sight of the World-Snatching Serpent emerging from the demonic mist.

Ye Yu’s pupils contracted suddenly. He didn’t even have time to speak before he was completely devoured by the World-Snatching Serpent.

Even in death, Yao Shan and Ye Yu didn’t expect the Demon Empress to disregard the rules of the Heavenly Dao and kill him directly.

A faint white light silently appeared in people’s field of vision, and the entire abyss seemed to be filled with the will of the Heavenly Dao. All the cultivators involuntarily knelt down, their bodies trembling.

That wisp of white light seemed to have a consciousness of its own, and its pressure descended upon the Demon Empress.

The Demon Empress raised her head, her alluring red eyes calm and indifferent. She slapped the will of the Heavenly Dao, shattering the white light.

She licked the drop of blood from her fingertip and said softly, “Next time, send the real one. You’re not qualified enough.”

Chapter 359: The Occupant of the Coffin, the Demon Empress Descends

“It seems the rumors were true. The Chaos Lands have opened.”

“But apart from Ye Yu, no one else seems to have entered the abyss. It must be because they don’t have a treasure map.”

Mu Zhi’an stood on a mountain peak, his black and gold robe billowing in the wind, his hair slightly disheveled. His handsome face was pale.

In the past, he would have been the arrogant young master, the villain waiting to be defeated by the protagonist. But now, he had several powerful beauties at his beck and call, his own constitution enhanced multiple times. The Chosen Ones had their ‘old grandpa’ cheat; he had his older sisters…

He looked out at the vast borderlands: towering mountains, lush forests, and the unknown creatures lurking within. This was the edge of the world.

The Heaven-Asking Lock, a first-grade ancestral artifact, allowed him to travel through space without expending much spiritual energy, thanks to Ye Qingxin’s nurturing.

I wonder who created this abyss… Even a fifth-grade Nascent Soul cultivator is suppressed to the fifth-grade Core Formation… Like the Forbidden Zone, it was filled with a powerful curse that only dissipated upon leaving, forcing cultivators to suppress it while navigating its dangers and fending off other treasure seekers. However, the curse had no effect on him, thanks to the map fragment and… Feiying’s love.

“I’m going in, Senior Ye,” he said.

Many cultivators hesitated outside the Chaos Lands, wary of the demons and the curse. But Mu Zhi’an possessed the Demon Realm’s mark. He wouldn’t be attacked.

As he flew towards the abyss on his sword, a demon cultivator on a distant peak glanced at him, then looked away. He had seen many cultivators, both human and demon, perish from the curse. Mu Zhi’an was just another fool. Then, he did a double take, staring at Mu Zhi’an’s face. “Inform Vice Clan Leader Fang Long! That person he mentioned has arrived!”

A messenger immediately flew towards Fang Long’s palace.

The Demon-Devouring Rhinoceros clan guarded the borderlands. Their Vice Clan Leader had ordered them to report any sightings of Mu Zhi’an, whose name was known even in the Demon Realm, thanks to the Jade Empress’s declaration. Few would dare to offend a Dao Integration expert’s Dao Companion. Why is the Vice Clan Leader so interested in him…?

“The person you mentioned has entered the abyss, Clan Leader,” the messenger reported.

Fang Long’s eyes snapped open. “He actually came?” He smiled faintly. “Prepare yourselves. We’re going to the abyss.”

Although the Jade Empress was a deterrent, this was the Demon Realm.

A human cultivator trespassing here could be killed without consequence.

Of course, with the Jade Empress around, that would be unwise. Even the Demon Empress might not intervene. But if he could obtain something from Mu Zhi’an and present it to Her Majesty… According to Ye Yu, Mu Zhi’an possessed Heavenly Dao Energy. The Demon Empress had been collecting it.

This could earn him a promotion.

…

“This abyss is connected to the Heavenly Court. The spiritual energy here… it’s from the Heavenly Court,” Mu Zhi’an murmured in surprise, stepping out of a spatial rift and looking around.

The abyss contained a vast realm: mountains, rivers, lakes, and a dense, swirling spiritual energy, reminiscent of the immortal path. Some cultivators were already meditating, tempted by its potency.

“Be careful. The curse here is powerful, comparable to the Forbidden Zone’s. If you don’t suppress it, you’ll die,” Ye Qingxin’s voice echoed in his mind. Even within his Innate Celestial Furnace, she could sense the outside world.

“Thank you, Senior. But it doesn’t seem to affect me.”

She scanned his body with her Spiritual Sense. “Strange… How…?”

“It’s similar to the Forbidden Zone’s curse. I consumed Rebirth Water there, which must have granted me immunity,” he chuckled. Unlike the other cultivators, he didn’t need to suppress the curse. And… thanks to Ye Yu, the treasure-hunting rat, he knew where the ‘treasure’ was.

He closed his eyes, contacting the Void Nightmare, which was following Ye Yu.

He smiled faintly.

As expected of someone with great luck…

The other cultivators are either dead or lost, but he’s already found the core area… The Heavenly Dao’s favor…?

But this also meant Mu Zhi’an could follow the same path.

…

As he ventured deeper, the number of cultivators dwindled. Those he encountered were covered in the curse’s marks. The deeper he went, the stronger the curse became.

However, he encountered no danger, following the path cleared by Ye Yu.

He continued deeper into the abyss, and a thick, black mist appeared before him. Ye Yu’s luck is truly remarkable. Even after I’ve weakened it so many times… He had seen dangerous formations and traps along the way, but Ye Yu had somehow navigated them all.

As he entered the black mist, he felt a strange pull, something calling to him from the depths of the abyss.

…

Clang! Ye Yu, his eyes filled with determination, sliced through a puppet, grabbed an ancient key, and looked up at the massive bronze doors before him, panting.

“I’ve finally reached the heart of the abyss!” He exhaled, exhausted but elated. He had overcome countless obstacles: hordes of beasts, demonic cultivators, hostile humans, and the abyss’s traps.

The air was cold and damp, the black mist swirling ominously, the ground littered with bones.

He held the key to the bronze doors, the gateway to the inheritance.

“The immortal inheritance should be inside,” Yao Shan’s voice echoed in his mind, filled with relief. He hadn’t expected Ye Yu to make it this far.

“It’s a shame Mu Zhi’an isn’t here. I could finally get rid of him,” Ye Yu murmured.

“The inheritance likely belongs to an ancient Dao Integration expert. Once you obtain it, dealing with Mu Zhi’an will be child’s play,” Yao Shan said.

“You’re right, Master. The inheritance is my priority!” He walked towards the bronze doors, grateful for Yao Shan’s unwavering support, unlike Ye Qingxin, who seemed to favor an outsider. He inserted the key and looked up, a sharp glint in his eyes. “I’ll make my ancestor regret her choice!”

If she had followed me, I could have nourished her consciousness…

A rumbling sound echoed from behind the doors.

As a joyful smile spread across his face, the scene within the palace gradually came into view.

…

A faint, white light filled his vision.

Heavenly Dao Energy! His heart pounded with excitement. He already possessed a portion of it, but the energy here was incredibly dense. There are three portions here! He rushed into the palace, his footsteps echoing through the vast hall.

At the far end, he saw an ancient coffin, the source of the Heavenly Dao Energy.

“Be careful,” Yao Shan warned. “This place is dangerous.”

“I know,” Ye Yu replied, calming himself down and approaching the coffin cautiously, his Spiritual Sense scanning his surroundings. He reached out, his hand glowing with spiritual energy.

The coffin creaked open, the light within intensifying.

He looked inside, eager to claim the Heavenly Dao Energy, then his smile froze.

The coffin was empty, only the faintest traces of Heavenly Dao Energy remaining.

And a single drop of blood.

The blood radiated a terrifying aura, like staring into an abyss, making his heart tremble. He stumbled back, coughing up blood. He stared at the coffin in disbelief.

“How…?”

“Where’s the Heavenly Dao Energy…?” His eyes were filled with confusion and rage.

“Did someone take it before me? But how…? I should be the first…” he murmured. One could only possess one portion at a time. He had a treasure to store it, but others shouldn’t.

“Relax. Let me see,” Yao Shan said, taking control of his body and staring at the empty coffin. After a moment, his expression turned grim, a flicker of fear in his eyes. “There was a woman sealed within this coffin. She must have awakened and taken the energy.”

“A woman… took the Heavenly Dao Energy?” Ye Yu asked, stunned. “Do you know who she is?”

Yao Shan looked at the drop of blood, his eyes filled with fear. “I don’t know… But even at my peak, I’ve never sensed such… divinity from a single drop of blood. Touching it now would destroy me.”

Ye Yu’s face paled, a shiver running down his spine. Even Master is afraid… How powerful is she…? He had been cursing her for taking the energy, but now he felt a surge of relief. She’s not here…

“Someone else has entered the palace,” Yao Shan suddenly said.

“How?!” Ye Yu exclaimed. He had been incredibly lucky to reach this place so quickly.

“It seems we’re too late.”

A warm, gentle voice came from behind him.

“Mu Zhi’an…?” Ye Yu’s eyes widened in disbelief as he turned around. “How…?”

“You were following me?!” he accused, his eyes burning with rage.

“You’re mistaken, Brother Ye. I encountered some trouble along the way. It’s a coincidence,” Mu Zhi’an said with a gentle smile.

“You’re lying! You followed me!” Ye Yu glared at him, but forced himself to remain calm. This palace was strange. The coffin’s occupant might return. And he was weakened, no match for Mu Zhi’an.

“There are some misunderstandings between us, Brother Ye… But this isn’t the time. You don’t mind me searching for my own opportunity, do you?” Mu Zhi’an asked with a smile.

Ye Yu’s eyes flickered, but he didn’t answer. There was nothing here. The Heavenly Dao Energy was gone. And Mu Zhi’an might even trigger a trap…

Mu Zhi’an, seeing his silence, closed his eyes, focusing on the strange pull he had felt since entering the abyss, which was now even stronger.

He opened his eyes, his gaze fixed on the ancient coffin.

“Idiot,” Ye Yu sneered inwardly, watching as Mu Zhi’an approached the coffin. Even his master feared that drop of blood. He had been injured just by looking at it. And now, Mu Zhi’an was about to touch it… He stepped back, ready to flee if anything happened.

As Mu Zhi’an reached for the blood, a terrifying pressure erupted from it.

“Step back! Even I can’t protect you!” Ye Qingxin’s voice echoed urgently in his mind. She had seen many Dao Integration experts, even in the Heavenly Court, but this blood… It could belong to a Transcendence expert, or even an Immortal! The first cultivator, the Heavenly Emperor!

However, something strange happened.

Mu Zhi’an hesitated, about to retreat, but the drop of blood flew out of the coffin, transforming into a faint light and entering his Innate Celestial Furnace.

Silence.

Ye Yu, who had been waiting for Mu Zhi’an’s demise, stared at the scene, his heart pounding. The blood… he absorbed it…? Was that the inheritance…? I gave it to him…? Jealousy consumed him, his eyes burning with murderous intent.

Mu Zhi’an, snapping out of his daze, turned to Ye Yu and smiled. “Thank you, Brother Ye.” He didn’t know what the blood was, but it seemed to be connected to his Innate Celestial Furnace.

“No one will know if you die here,” Ye Yu said coldly, his gaze fixed on Mu Zhi’an. Although he wasn’t a match for him alone, he had Yao Shan. And Mu Zhi’an was alone here. This was his chance.

Mu Zhi’an feigned surprise, then his expression changed. “Brother Ye, I’ve been trying to reconcile with you, for your ancestor’s sake… and you want to kill me?! I even told Senior Ye I would befriend her descendants…”

His words, and the thought of him being with Ye Qingxin, fueled Ye Yu’s jealousy. She’s my ancestor…

“Descendants? That woman who favors an outsider… she’s not my ancestor!” Ye Yu snarled, his eyes burning with hatred.

“That’s too much, Brother Ye. She’s still your ancestor…”

“You know she’s not on my side! Stop pretending!”

Slap!

Ye Yu’s face burned as Mu Zhi’an suddenly appeared before him and slapped him. He stared at Mu Zhi’an in disbelief, then his eyes filled with rage.

“Ye Yu, I thought you were just immature, not malicious. It seems I was wrong.”

Ye Qingxin’s voice echoed through the hall, making Ye Yu’s heart tremble. “Ancestor?!” She’s here?! With him?! His mind reeled, then rage consumed him. If he had thought she was merely deceived before, now he knew she was actively helping Mu Zhi’an.

“No wonder… you found this place so quickly… She helped you, didn’t she?” he gritted his teeth, glaring at Mu Zhi’an’s innocent expression.

“You two… you’re disgusting…”

A woman in a red and black dress appeared silently in the hall, her beautiful red eyes cold and calm as she looked at Ye Yu.

“Interesting,” she said softly. “On our way here, young friend Mu spoke highly of you, even trying to reconcile with you for my sake. I wasn’t planning to interfere… And you?” She looked at him, her eyes filled with disappointment. Even on their way here, she hadn’t wanted to interfere. She had only acted after hearing his insulting words. She had done her best as his ancestor.

“You’re no longer a descendant of the Ye family. You don’t have to call me Ancestor anymore,” she said coldly.

Ye Yu, snapping out of his daze, roared, “You’ve never helped the Ye family! You’re siding with an outsider! You’re not my ancestor!” Why is everyone against me, helping Mu Zhi’an?!

He glared at Mu Zhi’an, who suddenly smiled.

“Even I can’t stand this, Brother Ye. Do you even know why Senior Ye descended?”

“She’s looking for a way for the entire Ye family to ascend to the Heavenly Court,” Mu Zhi’an said softly.

Ye Yu froze.

Clan ascension…?

He knew what that meant.

If she succeeded… it would be a legendary feat. And he… wouldn’t be a part of it.

He felt a sharp pain in his heart, his hatred for Mu Zhi’an intensifying.

“Let’s go,” Yao Shan said, appearing as a translucent figure.

But Ye Yu’s eyes were bloodshot. “He has to die!”

“Even with your ancestor, we’re only evenly matched,” Yao Shan said, shaking his head.

“What if… we add ourselves to the mix?” a gentle voice chuckled from behind them.

Ye Yu’s eyes lit up as he turned around.

Fang Long!

But he noticed that Fang Long hadn’t entered the palace, instead bowing respectfully. “He’s here, My Lady.”

Ye Yu followed his gaze and saw a beautiful woman in a luxurious dress standing at the entrance.

Fang Long was incredibly respectful towards her.

“The First Seat…?” Yao Shan murmured, surprised. The Demon Realm’s First Seat?!

Ye Yu’s eyes widened with delight. With her and Fang Long’s help, killing Mu Zhi’an would be easy!

“You even brought the First Seat?” Yao Shan chuckled, looking at Fang Long. With their combined strength, Mu Zhi’an was doomed.

“I mentioned the Heavenly Dao Energy within him. She agreed to help,” Fang Long said with a smile, glancing at Mu Zhi’an with a sneer. He had only planned to bring a few of his clansmen, but he had encountered the First Seat, who was usually by the Demon Empress’s side. He had been incredibly lucky.

Ye Qingxin narrowed her eyes, looking at the two newcomers.

“Ancestor, it’s not too late to change your mind. I won’t stop you,” Ye Yu said, his gaze fixed on Mu Zhi’an.

“You’re just a wisp of consciousness. This isn’t worth the risk. We won’t stop you if you leave,” Fang Long said, smiling. It would be easier if she left.

“Even Dao Integration experts don’t command me. And now, a mere junior…?” Ye Qingxin’s eyes turned cold. She had refused their offer.

“You’re not leaving?” Fang Long’s smile turned playful. If it weren’t for the First Seat, he would hesitate. Even a wisp of her consciousness was powerful. “Yao Shan, can you deal with her?”

Yao Shan looked at Ye Yu, letting him decide.

“It’s up to you, Master,” Ye Yu said coldly. He no longer cared about her.

Yao Shan frowned, glancing at him, then remained silent.

Fang Long, amused by the scene, turned to the First Seat, about to ask for her help, but she hadn’t entered the palace, her head bowed respectfully, as if waiting for something.

“First Seat…?” He suddenly had a bad feeling.

Mu Zhi’an sensed a familiar aura and looked towards the entrance.

“What a pleasant surprise,” a seductive voice echoed through the palace, making everyone’s heart skip a beat.

A pink, demonic aura filled the air as an alluring figure, her long legs accentuated by her high-heeled boots, approached.

“Your Majesty!” Fang Long exclaimed, his eyes filled with awe. The First Seat’s appearance had been within his expectations, but the Demon Empress… She came here personally, for a bit of Heavenly Dao Energy…?

“If Your Majesty would be so kind as to restrain the Ye family ancestor, we’ll deal with Mu Zhi’an,” he said, bowing respectfully.

The breathtakingly beautiful Demon Empress emerged from the demonic aura, her presence intoxicating.

She tilted her head slightly, looking at Fang Long with a puzzled expression.

Chapter 358: What Kind of Stockings Should I Wear?

Yao Meng didn’t know much about Ye Qingxin, the Ye family ancestor. She was just a wisp of consciousness, but Yao Meng still harbored some resentment for her past actions against Mu Zhi’an.

“You were against him before. Why are you protecting him now?” Yao Meng asked, a smile on her face, but suspicion in her green eyes.

Ye Qingxin, her hair loose, her arms crossed, glanced at Mu Zhi’an, meeting his gaze for a moment before looking away. “Young Master Mu is close to my descendants. I had some misunderstandings about him before, but they’ve been resolved.” Her explanation was reasonable, but Yao Meng still felt uneasy.

Mu Zhi’an remained silent, looking straight ahead, his demeanor innocent and obedient. See? I’m not interacting with her. She’s the one who offered. Don’t blame me later. However, he felt the Jade Empress’s gaze upon him, a knowing smile on her face.

She’s suspicious… Would Ye Qingxin really protect him just because of his relationship with Ye Qian? Yao Meng didn’t believe it.

“Thank you for your help, fellow Daoist Ye,” she said, smiling, accepting the offer. With Ye Qingxin’s protection, she could focus on the Heavenly Phoenix Tree in the Jade Pool.

Mu Zhi’an was surprised by her easy agreement. This means another consciousness in my Innate Celestial Furnace…

“Your safety is more important. I’ll be at ease knowing Ye Qingxin is with you,” Yao Meng said softly, her hand gently caressing his face, a faint smile on her lips, but her green eyes seemed to see through him. Her Innate Dao Body could sense his spiritual energy fluctuations, and she could easily tell that his Innate Celestial Furnace was depleted.

“What’s wrong?” she asked, her voice gentle and melodious, her aura calming.

However, her smile seemed… predatory. She looks like she wants to devour me… He maintained a calm facade, but he was inwardly apprehensive. However, he had to investigate the Chaos Lands. And having Ye Qingxin with him was the best option.

…

“Has Young Master Mu left, Senior Jade Empress?” Yao Yue asked, returning to the pavilion and not seeing him. She had given them some privacy.

Yao Meng was reading “The Art of Managing Your Husband.”

The current page described methods of interrogating one’s Dao Companion in bed, using playful teasing to extract secrets, even including illustrations.

She couldn’t help but admire Shang Yanfei’s creativity.

Is this what she’s been researching all these years…?

Is this something a normal person would come up with…?

Chains, vines, teasing, using secret techniques to suppress his arousal… and verbal taunts…

There was even a technique to keep one’s Dao Companion aroused after dual cultivation, making them constantly crave more. However, it required Dao Integration level cultivation.

She closed the book, a thoughtful expression on her face. What would people think if they knew the revered Sect Master was the author of this book…?

“Senior…?” Yao Yue called out, seeing her silence.

Yao Meng smiled faintly. “He’s interested in the Chaos Lands.”

“Many cultivators have died trying to enter. Is it safe for him to go there?” Yao Yue frowned, concerned.

“You seem quite worried about him,” Yao Meng said, a playful smile on her lips.

“He helped me before. It’s only natural for me to be concerned,” Yao Yue replied quickly, afraid of being misunderstood.

“Don’t worry. The Ye family ancestor is with him,” Yao Meng chuckled, looking at her meaningfully.

“Do you have any extra Nirvana Silk?” she suddenly asked.

The Jade Pool’s Nirvana Silk was a rare material, and she hadn’t stored any, having been busy suppressing the Primordial Demon Emperor. However, it was incredibly beneficial for those below the Nascent Soul Realm, enhancing cultivation and providing protection in battle. And it felt amazing against the skin…

“I’ve already used most of it to make clothes or traded it for other treasures. And I gave the rest to Young Master Mu… You can ask the elders when you return to the Jade Pool,” Yao Yue said helplessly.

With the Jade Empress’s influence, the Jade Pool Holy Land was now more powerful than ever, receiving gifts and visitors daily. The elders would gladly give her anything she wanted.

“Why do you need it, Senior?”

“It can be made into clothes that enhance cultivation and provide protection, or used to… restrain someone,” Yao Meng said with a smile, twirling a strand of hair around her finger. “It can also be used to interrogate naughty boys.” And she was also interested in those fishnet stockings Mu Zhi’an had mentioned.

Black or white… which one…?

…

The Chaos Lands, the border between the Eastern Continent and the Demon Realm, was rarely visited by cultivators. However, the recent phenomenon had attracted countless treasure seekers, despite the dangers.

Although Mu Zhi’an wasn’t interested in the ruins, he had to investigate their connection to Wei Mengrou’s curse.

“According to the Void Nightmare, Ye Yu used the treasure map to enter the abyss. So the map is required to enter…?” He flew towards the Chaos Lands on the Heaven-Asking Lock, pondering his next move, unaware of Yao Meng’s thoughts about Nirvana Silk, and other things.

He took out a fragment of the treasure map, obtained from Xiao Hua’s storage ring by Lan Feiying, who had become increasingly mysterious, anticipating his needs. “Feiying is so thoughtful… It’s a good thing I visited her so often at the Morning Glory Auction House…” he murmured.

If she heard him, she would roll her eyes. He just wanted to see me…

“Your Innate Celestial Furnace is truly special. With a bit more of the Heavenly Court’s energy, I would mistake it for the Heavenly Court itself,” Ye Qingxin’s seductive voice echoed in his mind.

If he could see inside his Furnace, he would be captivated by the sight of the beautiful ancestor, her alluring figure reclining lazily amidst the swirling spiritual energy, her red eyes filled with wonder and delight. Even she was surprised by the structure and potency of his Innate Celestial Furnace.

“I’m glad you like it, Senior. I hope it can nourish your consciousness,” he replied with a warm smile. “And I’ll need your protection this time.”

“The Jade Empress entrusted you to my care. I’ll protect you,” she chuckled, her feet, clad in red embroidered shoes, dangling playfully.

That sounds suggestive…

But she’s just protecting me, not claiming me…

“There’s something I’m not sure if I should mention, Senior…” he said, then hesitated. “It’s nothing…”

“Just say it,” she said calmly.

“…The Chaos Lands are dangerous, and Brother Ye dislikes me… What if he causes trouble? He has a powerful being within him… I’m not his match. I’d like to reconcile with him, if possible,” Mu Zhi’an said, feigning concern.

“You’re too kind. He’s targeted you repeatedly. Why bother?” Ye Qingxin frowned.

“But he’s your descendant. I don’t want you to be caught in the middle.”

“Don’t worry about me. I’ll protect you. I’ll choose you over him,” she said, her voice softening. “Don’t say such things. It makes us seem distant.”

She knew about the conflict between them. Ye Yu was jealous and resentful, his pride wounded. And if he truly wanted revenge, he would have to rely on the powerful being within him. But she wouldn’t stand idly by, not just because of Mu Zhi’an’s connection to the Heavenly Court, but also because of his sincerity. He was considerate of her feelings, unlike Ye Yu, who had repeatedly disappointed her. She had given up on him.

“Then I’ll have to rely on you, Senior Ye,” Mu Zhi’an said with a smile.

Chapter 357: I’ll Take Care of Your Husband, Don’t You Worry

The Ascension Ceremony continued, with cultivators from all over the Nine Provinces gathered on the Southern Bank, some discussing the Dao, others watching the matches. News of the Chaos Lands had spread, but few dared to venture to the borderlands yet, due to the demonic cultivators and the rumors of a deadly curse.

Meanwhile, Mu Zhi’an left the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and flew towards the Star Moon Palace on the Southern Bank. He wanted to visit Xiao Shuixian, who must be grieving after Xiao Hua’s death. It was a good opportunity to build goodwill. A friend with her alchemy skills could be useful in the future.

A maid greeted him at the entrance, informing him that Luo Tan had just finished bathing. A Dao Integration expert still takes baths…? Is it a hobby? Or is she… preparing for my visit…? He waited patiently.

“Her Majesty will see you now,” the maid said, leading him into the hall.

Luo Tan’s hair was still slightly damp, casually draped over her shoulders, her usual elegant demeanor replaced by a more relaxed aura. She gestured for the maid to serve tea. “What brings you here, young friend Mu?” she asked, her voice gentle.

“I was worried about Miss Xiao after what happened to Brother Xiao yesterday, so I brought some Calming Pills,” Mu Zhi’an said, placing a small, ornate box on the table. “I also brought some for you, Senior, as a small token of my gratitude.”

Luo Tan looked at him with appreciation. He was intelligent. She didn’t lack pills, but his gesture showed his sincerity. She was also impressed by his calm demeanor. Most Core Formation cultivators wouldn’t be so relaxed in her presence. “Thank you for your kindness. There’s no need to worry about me. I’ll have someone deliver the pills to Shuixian.”

“Thank you, Senior.” Mu Zhi’an bowed, then sighed softly. “I didn’t expect Brother Xiao to be possessed… It seems having a powerful consciousness residing within one’s body is quite risky.”

“Most powerful beings wouldn’t possess a Core Formation cultivator, especially one as weak as Xiao Hua. That demon probably had no other choice,” Luo Tan said with a smile, her elegant demeanor and regal aura captivating.

“That’s true. Brother Ye Yu has been fine… Brother Xiao was just unlucky,” Mu Zhi’an murmured thoughtfully.

“Ye Yu? Does he also have a powerful being within him?” Luo Tan asked, raising an eyebrow. She had heard his name mentioned recently.

“I heard he’s quite powerful, a former high-level cultivator and a master alchemist,” Mu Zhi’an said, praising Ye Yu sincerely. He knew mentioning a powerful being alone wouldn’t pique her interest, as Luo Tan, a long-lived Empress, had likely seen it all. But a ‘master alchemist’…

“I know most of the master alchemists in the Nine Realms. I haven’t heard of any perishing and leaving their consciousness behind. Do you know who it is?” Luo Tan asked, looking at him intently.

“Ye Yu mentioned his name during our spar… He’s one of the best alchemists in the Eastern Realm… Have you heard of… Yao Shan, Senior?” Mu Zhi’an asked, his voice filled with feigned curiosity, a gentle smile on his face.

Silence fell over the hall.

Luo Tan’s smile faded, her expression turning cold. “Yao Shan is still alive?” she asked after a long moment, her voice icy. She knew Yao Shan. He had been her disciple, but he had betrayed her, attempting to steal the Myriad Transformations Cauldron. She had placed a bounty on his head, offering a favor to whoever eliminated him. Two months later, she had received news of his death. And now…

“Are you sure, young friend Mu? Everyone knows he’s dead.”

Mu Zhi’an feigned surprise and quickly bowed. “That’s what he called himself, Senior. I’m not sure if it’s truly him… Do you… know him, Senior?”

Luo Tan’s gaze softened, and a smile returned to her face. “You never cease to surprise me, young friend Mu. He was my disciple, but he betrayed me, killing two of his fellow disciples and attempting to steal the Yu State’s most precious treasure. If he’s truly alive… I owe you another favor.”

“I was just making conversation, Senior. I didn’t know about his past,” Mu Zhi’an said, shaking his head respectfully. He knew when to stop. Luo Tan would deal with Yao Shan herself. As for Ruoxi’s Tai Xu Pill… it wasn’t the right time to ask. It would be too obvious. Luo Tan knew he had ulterior motives, but as long as he wasn’t too blatant, she wouldn’t mind.

After chatting for a while longer, he excused himself.

Luo Tan smiled as she watched him leave. Then, her maid, Jing Xi, who had been silently standing in the corner, said softly, “Your Majesty, this Mu Zhi’an… he has ulterior motives, just like the others.” She had seen countless people trying to curry favor with the Pill Emperor.

“Whether he has motives or not, the information about Xiao Hua and Yao Shan is valuable. That’s enough,” Luo Tan said calmly, her eyes twinkling. She knew he had ulterior motives, but he had been helpful.

She twirled a strand of hair around her finger, a seductive glint in her eyes. “Besides… letting him approach me… is part of my plan.”

…

On the Northern Bank, in an elegant pavilion, a clear spring flowed, and plum blossoms swayed in the wind.

“Ye Lingxuan is different. She was a Dao Integration expert in her past life. I’m glad you understand what I told you last night,” Yao Meng said, her green dress flowing around her, her hair loose, an ethereal aura surrounding her as she smiled gently at the young woman before her.

She had talked to Yao Yue last night, expecting her to be disheartened by her defeat, but she had been surprisingly calm.

“I’ll remember your teachings, Senior Jade Empress,” Yao Yue replied, her own aura shimmering. She wasn’t discouraged. Even Dao Integration experts experienced defeats in their youth. And her opponent was the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden, the ninth reincarnation of the Reincarnated Empress. There was no shame in losing to her, especially with the Desolate Time Lock.

She looked at a young man who had just entered the pavilion and smiled politely. “Brother Lan Wu, I’ll try to talk to Senior Sister Lan. If she agrees to see you, I’ll let you know.”

“Thank you, Holy Maiden Yao Yue,” Lan Wu said with a warm smile, bowing respectfully.

He had been sent by the Lan family to bring his sisters back, but neither Lan Feiying nor Lan Mulian would see him.

He had no choice but to ask for help from their acquaintances.

“Perhaps you should ask Young Master Mu. He might be more persuasive,” Yao Yue suggested, her smile bright, her fair skin glowing with an ethereal light.

Unlike her, Yao Meng’s figure was more alluring, her green eyes radiating a seductive charm, her aura powerful and divine.

Although many envied Mu Zhi’an’s relationship with the Jade Empress, even Lan Wu, he avoided looking at her directly. He could speak to Yao Yue as an equal, but not to the Jade Empress. It wasn’t fear, but the natural awe a Core Formation cultivator felt towards a Dao Integration expert.

Lan Wu bowed and left, his old servant following closely behind.

“The Holy Maiden has a point. Young Master Mu might be able to persuade her…” the old servant said tentatively. Lan Mulian wouldn’t see anyone without her permission.

Lan Wu shook his head. “You saw his attitude that day. If she doesn’t want to see me, he won’t help.”

As they walked, they sensed someone approaching on a flying sword.

“Are you here to see the Jade Empress, Brother Mu?” Lan Wu asked with a smile.

What’s he doing here…? Mu Zhi’an wondered, then he smiled. “I’m also here to see the Holy Maiden. We’re friends. I was worried about her after her defeat yesterday.” He didn’t ask about Lan Wu’s purpose. He could guess. Lan Mulian clearly disliked her family, and Lan Wu was here to persuade her to return. He wouldn’t get involved.

He nodded at Lan Wu and entered the pavilion, where he saw the two Holy Maidens. He couldn’t help but admire Yao Meng’s ethereal beauty, her green dress, her long, flowing hair, her alluring figure, her aura both pure and seductive. Although she appeared innocent to outsiders, the women around him knew her true nature.

“You’re here too, Young Master Mu?” Yao Yue asked with a smile. Unlike Yao Meng, her attire was more youthful, her white dress embroidered with plum blossoms, her beauty vibrant and lively.

Mu Zhi’an’s gaze lingered on her for a moment, then he smiled. “Yao Meng visited you last night and hasn’t returned. And I was worried about you, Holy Maiden.”

“You just want to see the Jade Empress, don’t you?” she said with a smile.

“That too,” he admitted. “I’m going to the borderlands soon.”

Yao Meng’s eyes narrowed. “The Chaos Lands?” She frowned slightly. “At a time like this…”

“Do you have other matters to attend to?” he asked, sensing her hesitation.

“There’s been some activity in the Jade Pool after the incident in the Chaos Lands. The Jade Empress was planning to return,” Yao Yue explained.

Yao Meng smiled faintly. “Since you’re going to the Chaos Lands, I’ll go with you.”

“You should go back to the Jade Pool. I’ll be fine,” Mu Zhi’an said quickly.

“You died in the Jade Pool last time. I’m not letting you go alone,” she said, glancing at him.

He sat beside her, taking her hand. “I have the Void Nightmare now.”

Yao Yue, smiling at their intimacy, excused herself to prepare tea.

“The Void Nightmare is strong, but there might be other powerful beings in the borderlands,” Yao Meng said.

“I can even suppress Dao Integration experts,” Mu Zhi’an shrugged.

“Suppress… how did you do that, exactly?” she asked, her legs crossed, a faint blush on her usually cold face.

He couldn’t help but admire her legs.

She traced her finger along her thigh, glancing at him. “Be serious. Or do you want to… before we continue?”

“Here?” he asked, surprised and slightly aroused.

She blushed, about to speak, when a melodious voice echoed through the pavilion.

“If the Jade Empress is worried, I’ll go with him,” a woman in a red and black dress said, appearing in a flash of red light, her ample bosom prominent, sparks dancing in her hair.

Yao Meng’s green eyes narrowed as she looked at Ye Qingxin. She was against him just a few days ago… Now she’s helping him?